Re: Viemera: The Essence of Deceit [Complete]

[Silvan Arrow]

The walk back to the group was…awkward, to say the least. Eri studiously kept her eyes focused on the forest ahead, though she barely paid attention to her surroundings. Her mind was still numb and reeling from what had just happened. Her inner mental monologue consisted of half-finished, bewildered questions. ‘What in the…? Why did he…? HUH?’ And poor Arashi had no idea what to say in response. After all, how could he formulate a response when he couldn’t even discern one intelligible thought?

Jake’s words replayed over and over in Eri’s head like a broken record, and each repetition only made the strange hollow ache in her chest grow worse. She had encouraged Jake to keep fighting, offered her help (which was a first), and unknowingly poured out her heart in that one single, telling statement:

“I don’t relish the thought of killing someone important to me…”

“Yeah, we should! Don’t want them thinking that we started some action back here or something!”

“You’re always welcome to take my hand, in case you get lost!”

Just like that, the old Jake was back, as if someone blown on a candle to snuff out the flame. The usual, cocky Jake who cared about no one except himself and loved nothing more than bugging the living daylights out of Eri with his snide remarks. Eri struggled to shove her emotions back behind her mental walls where they belonged, but it was no use. Too many emotions to name struggled for dominance in her mind, refusing to be silenced. All she could do was keep her expression neutral and hope no one noticed.

Luckily, her personal issues received a welcome reprieve as they arrived back at the clearing in time to hear Tsume’s words regarding Raewyn. She had to admit that he made sense, but she had also become a Saturate at the age of 14 and had nearly lost her father in the same day. She had made it through that situation without changing too drastically. Or had she?

The group didn’t travel far before setting up camp for the night. An aura of exhaustion, both physical and mental, hung heavily over everyone. Eri mainly kept to herself for the afternoon, sitting in the branches of a sturdy maple tree that shaded their campsite and eating some of her rations to keep up her strength. By late afternoon, she had regained enough Essence to summon Arashi and send him out to hunt at Tsume’s request.

The two summon creatures returned an hour later bearing the fruits of their labors. Eri swung down from her perch and accepted the pile of pheasants and hares from Arashi’s talons. Sparing a glance to the side, she saw that Alco had just as big of a haul despite his smaller size. Alco may be smaller for now, but he is remarkably quick and an agile hunter, Arashi said in answer to the unspoken question. Genuine respect for his fellow summon colored his words.

Eri spared a small smile for her friend and set to work preparing Arashi’s game. After field dressing the animals, she took the pheasant breasts that were still intact and set them to roasting on sticks by the campfire. She took the remaining pheasant meat that had been marred by Arashi’s talons, as well as all the hare meat, and prepared a simple stew. She brought some food to where Loki was sitting so he could stay off his injured leg and forced a pleasant expression for his benefit. “Your wound should heal quickly as long as you take it easy.” A light smirk played across her lips. “Needless to say, katar practice will have to wait until you’re back up to full speed.”

As the group ate, Arashi perched in the same tree that Eri had occupied and simply watched, though Eri’s unrest beat at his senses. After everyone had eaten his or her fill and Tsume had gone to fetch Raewyn, he offered her the excuse for the solitude she so desperately needed. Mistress, I found a small, clean lake within walking distance of here.

Eri said nothing in response. She didn’t need to. The wave of relief and gratitude that flooded the link communicated better than words. She rummaged around in her pack and dug out the smaller backpack Tsume had provided. She quickly shoved a bar of soap, a cloth, clean undergarments, and a towel into the backpack and stood, swinging the strap onto her shoulder. “I won’t be long,” she said over her shoulder to no one in particular, and then she moved into the forest without another word as Arashi followed from the skies.

With Arashi’s mental leads, she found a gap between the trees that opened up to reveal a pristine, river-fed lake about a half-mile from the campsite. She sighed in relief. Yes, a few minutes of solitude was exactly what she needed. Arashi landed on the ground next to Eri and cocked his head to one side, his crystal blue eyes shining with concern. You are troubled, Mistress. He spoke it as a statement rather than a question.

Instead of answering, Eri simply walked forward and cupped Arashi’s beak in her hands briefly before wrapping her arms around his neck and burying her face in the warm, soft feathers. Arashi cooed softly and draped his wings around her, offering the comfort she sought while shielding her from any prying eyes. He waited patiently, reading her swirl of jumbled emotions through both their mental link and the physical contact.

‘I am…confused,’ Eri finally admitted. ‘I don’t know how to explain it.’ Her mental tone expressed the helplessness she felt at conveying her confusion.

You don’t need to try to explain it, Eri, Arashi replied, deliberately using her name to try and soothe her. You are starting to experience your emotions again, and sometimes the sensations overwhelm you.

Eri pulled away from Arashi so she could more easily look him in the eye, and he folded his wings neatly at his sides. “Yeah, I guess that’s one way of putting it.” She felt too mentally drained at the moment to even communicate through their link.

I have seen your memories from before you became a Saturate through your mind’s eye, so I know you were not always like this. Tell me, you experienced many emotions as a child, did you not?

“Yeah, I did…” Eri reached back into the deeper recesses of her mind where she rarely tread, where she kept memories of happier times locked away: following her mother in the kitchen, watching her father at his smithy, begging him for sword lessons and jumping up and down in glee when he finally relented, and playing with the children in her village. “I had a happy childhood. My father didn’t make a lot of money as a blacksmith in such a small farming village, but we had what was most important. That was more than enough.” Everything changed when they moved to a city populated by Therians. She remembered the ridicule she experienced for clinging to her Seedist beliefs, the sorrow of loneliness, the nights spend crying in her bed when she thought her parents couldn’t hear. But the single most defining moment of her life came when Therians came out of nowhere and tried to murder her and her father. The memory flowed freely to Arashi, who experienced the event afresh as clearly as the first time. But most importantly, he relived Eri’s emotions, particularly the heart wrenching fear that she would lose her father, the single solid rock in her life, for good.

You were so emotionally injured from nearly losing him that you unknowingly sealed away your feelings even as you trained to master our combined powers, Arashi explained. You didn’t want to feel the pain that Therians had inflicted on you ever again, so you locked away the negative emotions as well as the positive ones.

Eri realized with a shock that Arashi was right. Becoming a Saturate had changed her after all, just like Tsume had said with Raewyn. Now she could understand a little better what the Goddess was experiencing. “I’ll have to apologize. I shouldn’t have said those things to her…” Eri admitted with a weary sigh.

That can wait for now. At the moment I’m more concerned about you.

This time Eri gave a short laugh. “All right, mother hen. I’ll take care of myself so you’ll stop fretting.” She let her backpack drop to the ground, and Arashi flew up to perch on a nearby branch to act as the lookout while Eri undressed. She had no reason to feel embarrassed around Arashi; as an eagle, he had never understood human ideas of clothing and modesty. To him, what humans called nudity was just another part of nature. Flowers never sought further adornment than their petals, and animals wore nothing except their coverings of scales, feathers, or fur. Why should humans be any different? He had finally come to a kind of mental compromise when Eri explained clothing as the human equivalent of birds displaying their colorful plumage. Ah, of course humans would try to imitate the natural, colorful beauty displayed by his winged kin. He had puffed up in an uncharacteristic show of smugness upon making this realization.

Eri slipped into the clear lake water and let out her breath in a soft hiss upon feeling its frigid temperature. However, she quickly acclimated and sighed contentedly as the chilly water eased the soreness in her muscles and washed away the dried blood and dirt. After bathing, she unwound the bandages on her arm to expose and clean the gunshot wound from earlier. Her thoughts strayed unbidden to Jake once again as she remembered how she had received these bandages. Within the past 24 hours, she had received new powers from the Goddess, nearly gotten crushed by a mile’s worth of falling trees, fought against a pack of mercenaries, and taken three lives. However, none of that had impacted her as strongly as Jake’s last words to her. She still couldn’t understand how he could so easily act like nothing had happened, like her words didn’t mean at least a little bit of something. Was it just another of his jokes? If so, it was a cruel, sick joke. ‘I’m not playing along with his games, and I won’t just pretend like nothing happened. I can’t.’

Eri could feel Arashi’s watchful gaze, and she held her breath and sank underwater for a few seconds to try and clear her mind. Her efforts were futile. When she resurfaced, it wasn’t just water that tracked rivulets down her cheeks…

She was gone longer than she had intended, and the sun had set by the time she strode back to the campsite alone. Other than the clean bandages covering her wound, Eri looked much the same. However, she was grateful that the cover of darkness concealed the slight redness in her eyes. She gave a brief nod of acknowledgement to the group, still minus Tsume and Raewyn, and collapsed on her bedroll to await the onslaught of sleep or Tsume's return, whichever came first.

[Sunwolf007]

The short trip to the new camping site took much longer than Owen wanted it to. He was already exhausted from the Essence usage of the battle. That bothered him because he wasn’t quite sure what the Essence was used for. If I have gained a regeneration ability then I shouldn’t have used that much. Yet if it truly was time manipulation then that would explain the exhaustion of my Essence. It can’t be both. How… Owen kept thinking in circles and kept coming up with the same result of not knowing which ability he had picked up. Even while sitting around before dinner he sat brooded in the camp thinking over his situation. He had to figure out what to do to prepare himself and the others.

Regardless of the ability this new ability this trip has now become my legacy. It doesn’t matter if I wanted it to be so or not. If I am dying swiftly I can’t afford not to make this my legacy. I have left more than my share of dead bodies and earned myself the name of Peacemaker, the name of one of our finest selling revolvers. I must leave behind something that is better than a pile of bodies. The monk reminded me that she may not be the Goddess yet but if she is taught properly then she would be. But regardless of the rest of them slacking on their selfish thoughts I must maintain mine. A man’s death is the one thing he most assuredly does alone. I must properly prepare for that moment as it may be swiftly approaching. If I am not dying by regeneration powers I still have the best bet for a proper legacy for my family. But still they must know in case I do get to the point where I must end the pain before it starts. Owen spoke no more than a few words during dinner as he was still busy thinking of what to say. This was not something you just sprang upon someone.

After dinner Tsume went off to fetch the young Goddess. This would be the time to talk to the ones he wanted. This group had proven to him that at least that they were worthy of being the ones to remember him for his greatest deed. They were stand up people who would be believed by his family when they told them of his final fight. Soon he wouldn’t have to worry about being to selfish. It didn’t suit him to be so selfish but his impending death forced him to be so.

He was about to break out his hidden stash of good whiskey and make a toast when Eri took off for some alone time. She has been through a lot, like the rest of us. I suppose some mental rest would be good for all of us. I still don’t know what to say. I am not the best at talking about myself due to habit. Still they must know.

“Hey Loki. I am sorry about earlier. Just, a bad dream.” Owen apologized to him and was reminded that he rarely ever used their names. He always tried to distance himself from others knowing they could never know who he really was. He would never hear a lover say his real name with intense passion. No one would ever truly understand that every time he heard his name he was reminded of his greatest sin and the moment of his greatest weakness. His brother had chosen not to go for the kill shot yet he had. It was the moment that had crushed him to something beyond recognition and haunted every moment of every day. That moment had sealed his fate to this existence. To having no other living soul ever truly know him nor have the ability to ever confess himself truly to another.

He leaned back against his tree and relaxed somewhat. As exhausted as he was he needed to get at least one part of his true self to them. He felt his mortality closing in and was thinking of legacy. He would never have children because he could never get close to any women he had to lie to from the moment of meeting. He knew that there would be no children in his short future. He had none waiting at home either and this lead him to this final act of legacy. He would die while serving the Goddess and be used by his family to sell firearms by propagating his hero image. This would be his legacy and he felt no sorrow. He just wished he was dieing older than 22. I originally joined this group to accomplish three things. One was to secure my legacy. Two was to find and fight those who conspired with my brother to lead him into that duel. Three was to use this adventure as advertisement for my families’ company. At least I should be able to accomplish two of the three.

While he was thinking of his depressing fate he had taken a lot more time than he had thought. Eri returned with her hair slightly wet. When she sat down they were all seated around the camp fire. Well, now is the best time, Owen thought as he stood drawing attention to himself. He pulled his flask from his pocket and had finally decided on what to say.

“Maybe, Fate was pissed off the day my destiny was declared. It’s the only explanation I have for my disposition. I have never liked delivering bad news so I might as well just say it. Our young Goddess has forced my hand. I have been diagnosed with Vikinson’s disease. They caught it early but the outcome wouldn’t have been any different if they had just found out about it yesterday. I have been having migraines off and on for the past year because of it. Soon my five senses will start being messed with and that is when the last six months happen. First I will lose my senses one by one and then intense migraines will force me to focus only on the pain until I die from starvation.” Owen paused a moment to let that sink in. The group looked surprised at his sudden truthfulness.

“I have been going over in my head what ability I picked up from our young Goddess and am still not sure which of the two I came up with. It’s either Regeneration or Time Manipulation. If it is indeed Regeneration then the Vikinsons won’t take 6 months, it should only take days. I can’t change these facts but I can leave behind some legacy. I need one of you to tell my family how I died because in the next 6 days I will plan on fighting a lousing battle for our group. A man’s death is something he does alone and I am determined to not let this disease kill me. You are to not mention the Vikinsons to my family. My mother and sister won’t take the news of my passing well so you should tell my father first. I have no wife or children so it shouldn’t be too terrible on the unlucky person. But enough of that. I propose a toast.” Owen held up his flask to emphasize what to drink. “Here is to me living the next 6 months in 6 days.”

With that he took a swig of his whiskey and held the flask to the person to his right.

[quakernuts]

Jake couldn’t help but glimpse back towards Eri every so often. He hated what he had said, he hated who he had to be, and he hated his entire being. Yet, he simply couldn’t become someone else. If he did, people might start to care for him, and he wouldn’t allow that to happen. He had felt what it was like to watch a loved one suffer and die. He knew exactly what it was like to know that there was nothing he could to do in order to help. He knew that the hole in his being would forever be there until he died because of that fateful night. He knew he wasn’t the only one who had had this sort of thing happened, after all, the world was a dangerous place. He, however, vowed to himself not to allow another person feel those feelings when they watched him die. He would simply be another idiot who took on to much, and ended up paying the final price for it.

Watching Eri start to wander away from the camp, he wanted desperately to go explain himself. Why he wouldn’t allow himself to be cared for. Yet his feet refused to move, and he could do nothing but watch as she eventually disappeared. He had fought against mercenaries, soldiers, summoned beasts, and won each. Yet here he was, afraid to go talk to a girl like a ten-year-old coward. He stood alone with his thoughts, one of the things he didn’t want to be. He continued to act like he was watching over the camp, but really, he wasn’t paying attention to the surrounding landscape. His eyes were pointed inwards on himself, picking apart every last little detail that made who he was. Should he change? Could he allow himself to change? Why would he need to change?

Jake stood like this, frozen in his spot, for the entire time. Every so often he would scratch his arm, or feel his back for his axe to make sure it was still there, but otherwise made no movement. He was unusually quiet, but slowly the old Jake was making his appearance known once more. Eventually, once the sun had settled a bit more, Eri made her way back to camp. Jake’s first instinct was to say something sarcastic, but he held his tongue. There was a difference between being himself, and being an absolute asshole. Suddenly, James got up, and started speaking. The man hadn’t spoken much since joining with the group, and Jake hadn’t spoken much to the man except to yell at him for planning the ambush. As much as he hated ambushes, he had to admit that it worked fairly well.

As the man started talking, Jake turned to pay more attention to what he was saying. Through his entire spiel of the Vikinson’s disease, Jake was walking slightly closer to the center of the group. His arms were crossed in front of his chest, and he still looked serious. His previous mood, while calmed down, was still slightly there. Jake couldn’t say that he knew what Vikinson’s disease really was, but from the way that Jame’s described it, it sounded like it was something that didn’t need to exist. Jake tried to hear his surprise at the confession the man was giving, but probably failed at it horribly. Everyone here seemed to have a hidden history or condition which forced them to be who they were. As James continued, Jake slowly nodded in agreement with him. As he took the bottle from Jame’s hand, he held it in front of him, he spoke. “I know we didn’t get off on the right foot per say, but I won’t tell your family. Chances are I’ll never meet them, and that will make it easier to keep the promise.”

Jake raised the bottle, and nearly said something else, but stopped. Instead, he simply drank a hearty portion of the bottle, and returned the lid to the top. Eri was laying a few feet away, and he doubted Loki really wanted to drink alcohol. So, he tossed the bottle towards Eri, and watched as it fell into her lap. He gave a slight smirk, but inwardly he was hitting himself hard. “Wakey wakey eagle eyes! Give the man some props for his sudden truthfulness!” As he turned and returned to his position away from the group, he was frowning into the forest. His mind wandered back to what he was about to say to the toast.

To Dead Men Walking.

[Silvan Arrow]

Eri lay quietly on her cot, her head pillowed on her hands while she stared blankly at the sky. She had used the walk back to the campsite to rebuild some of her mental barriers, and thankfully she had regained enough control to at least portray her usual façade. That is, until James started talking. She started to prop up on her elbows to hear him better and then froze wide-eyed at his next words:

“…because in the next 6 days I will plan on fighting a losing battle for our group.”

‘You have got to be kidding me…’ Eri thought as a fist of dread clenched her stomach in its painful, icy grip. Too many thoughts flashed through her mind at once. James had an incurable disease. James was dying. James planned on falling in battle before the illness took him. But in six days?! What else could possibly go wrong today? Her arms quivered uncontrollably beneath her, and she fell back onto her cot, suddenly too numb to process anything. She couldn’t even hear Arashi’s desperate words to try and get a response from his mistress. She actually gave a startled jerk when she felt James’ flask land roughly on her lap.

“Wakey wakey eagle eyes! Give the man some props for his sudden truthfulness!”

That did it. James’ sudden announcement of his disease and plans for a “legacy” had pushed her fragile emotional control to its limits, but that last statement from Jake, from old cocky Jake, ripped the hollow ache in her chest wide open. After everything else that had happened today, this was just too much. She sat up and held the flask in one hand, regarding it with indignation like some alien curiosity. Then her temper suddenly flared white-hot, and she growled under her breath and punched the ground. Hard. Her surge of rage unknowingly triggered her newfound User ability of wind manipulation, shooting currents of air into the ground, creating a dent in the earth around her fist and slicing her knuckles in the process.

Eri rounded on Jake and sent him a dark, half-lidded glare. “You seriously want me to give props for that?” she asked in a dangerous undertone. Eri turned furious, accusing eyes to James. “Sounds to me like you’ve already given up!” she practically shouted, before continuing in a slightly lower, yet no less harsh, tone of voice. “You said you had either gained time manipulation or regeneration, but if you’ve already decided to go off yourself, then the fact that you have hope means absolutely nothing!”

Later, when Eri would look back on this moment in time, she would think she had temporarily lost her mind. Two days ago she never once gave thought to hope or legacy, and here she was, practically shoving those very ideas down a man’s throat. Someone she had only known for a couple of days. “Purposely fighting a losing battle just to escape the pain is no legacy. It’s…it’s cowardice!” Just as suddenly as it had begun, her rage evaporated, leaving behind a hollow, wearying sadness in her voice and expression. She dropped her gaze to the flask in her uninjured hand. “I’m so tired of seeing people running away from their problems or hiding behind masks. Hell, I’ve done more than my fair share of that.” Her gaze flicked upward to Jake almost out of reflex before focusing on James again. Her emotional walls were slowly rebuilding, and she could regard him with her usual serious expression. “I have nothing to toast. But if you’ll stop running and start fighting, then yes, I would drink to that.”

Eri gave one last, weary sigh and held the flask out to Loki’s outstretched hand. She couldn’t bring herself to meet her pupil’s worried gaze. “Here. Maybe you can share some kind of uplifting message. Heaven knows I can’t.” They probably thought she was crazy now. She had just shattered whatever image she had built with them of being the serious, calm, and collected warrior. But for some reason, she couldn’t bring herself to care. She didn’t even care about the rivulets of blood trickling from her knuckles to drip off her fingertips and stain the hard-packed earth. She was just…numb.

[Digital Muse]

Raewyn’s attempts to sleep were interrupted by the appearance of Tsume. She was relieved to see him, until she remembered she was supposed to be angry with him. With all of them. He spoke softly, airing her arguments back to her. “They’re wrong, you know.” She sat up and looked at him suspiciously, but allowed him to continue uninterrupted. She was willing to let him convince her she really wasn’t a bad person. She’d been saying so the whole time, after all.

Letting the monk lead her to the stream, she sighed softly. She really didn’t want to get cleaned up. She was just so tired and bruised and hungry. But the offer of some food when she was done finally convinced her to follow Tsume’s suggestion to bathe. She took her time, even though the water is shockingly cool. Her skin turned to goose flesh and her teeth chattered, but true to Tsume’s word, it was refreshing. She eventually called to him, and as she ate the rabbit and bread, her teeth stopped chattering from the cold and reaction to the days events.

Raewyn and Tsume spoke briefly about what she knew of the Temple and the Goddess Eraclea, which was very little. It all happened long before she had been born. And, naturally, no one wanted to talk about the old Goddess, as if saying her name would somehow resurrect her spirit. People such as her family had little to do with the Goddess or the temple or Essence. It simple never came up, even in passing.

Tsume proceeded to tell her about the Temple and the reason for his own existence. She watched his face as he spoke. Wondering if somehow she’d be able to tell if he was telling the truth. She could hear his heartbeat. She smelled the scent of the camp fire in his clothes and hair, she could see the faintest pollen resting on his eyelashes. She became engrossed momentarily in her senses until he showed her a necklace with a deep red oval gem set in a silver frame. Despite herself, she gasped at its beauty. And yet, it exuded some… wrongness about it.

Before her wondering eyes, scenes unfold of Eraclea’s corruption, despotism and cruelty. She was unstoppable, powerful and casually evil. The memories of individuals living and dying under her horrible reign were shattering to Raewyn. She realized the power she would one day be able to wield. It was terrifying and made even breathing difficult. Nausea swept over her when she saw the loss of hundreds of thousands of lives by Eraclea’s hand. Her face paled and finally the visions ended. Tsume gently fastened the necklace about her own neck.

”Keep this as a warning of what you might become if you let your power control you rather than the other way around.”

Raewyn thumbed the faceted surface of the crimson gemstone, deeply disturbed by what she’d seen. She had so much to think about. She’d had so much to deal with and get used to in such a short period of time. Finally tucking the gem away in her embroidered shirt, Raewyn nodded at Tsume’s promise to see her through. “Alright, Tsume. I’ll try. Honest I will.” At that moment, she meant it too.

Hand in hand, Tsume lead Raewyn through the darkened forest for the few miles that she had wandered away from the original campsite and then on to the new campsite away from the scene of the battle earlier in the day. They arrived shortly after some tense moment had occurred by the rest of the party. Eri was standing and looked tense and unhappy, Jake wasn’t his normal cocky self, James appeared a bit taken aback and Loki appeared slightly lost while holding a flask that Raewyn had never seen him with before.

While Tsume didn’t appear curious, Raewyn most certainly was. The problem was that she’d cut ties with the group only a scant few hours before. How could she ask intimate questions when she’d just gotten done accusing them all of being murderers?

An uncomfortable silence seemed to stretch for an eternity before Raewyn felt compelled to explain herself. “I’m sorry!” She blurted suddenly. She cringed inwardly for sounding like such a child. Clearing her throat, “I’m sorry.” She repeated more softly. “I was afraid and confused and …” She shrugged. “I was…I didn’t understand.” She kept her eyes down, afraid to meet any of their accusing stares. She dropped her pack to one side of the fire, unsure of her welcome and rubbed her chest over the spot the necklace rested against her skin.

[Loki]

Loki had listened to Owen's speech, trying to comprehend as much as he could, but much of the meaning was lost. He had never heard of that disease, but he knew better than to ask if there was a cure. The lad may be young, but he wasn't so naive to assume Owen hadn't already looked for it. It wasn't until Eri's outburst that he had an idea of Owen's intentions. The thought of losing any of his new friends caused a lump to form in his throat. It was then that he finally had a perspective of the tension that had built while he was unconscious.

Raewyn and Tsume were gone, given the monk's statement, possibly forever. Eri's temper had been very unlike her, even though he had only known her for a little while. For some reason, Jake's sarcasm hit her much harder than usual. He wish he had known what had happened to cause the hostility between them. James was dying and eager to throw himself to the enemy so that he wouldn't suffer.

Loki could feel a familiar loneliness returning to his feelings. The same numbness he felt when he lived with his neglectful father. He realized that not once did he feel regretful about running away and felt no longing to return. He feared that his past was about to repeat itself and suddenly felt a need to hide from this phobia. It was no mystery to him what the flask contained, though he had only heard of the liquid's nature. Loki could feel tears begin to well in his eyes as he reached out for the flask, not out of shame but out of need to numb his emotions.

As Eri handed him the container, he struggled to think of anything to say to hide his turmoil. It was at that moment that he seen Tsume and Raewyn wander into the camp. He paused, listening to her apology and felt the burden begin to lift from his emotions. Once again they were reunited, though he could sense the lingering tension between everyone in the group. Nobody was sure of how to react for that brief moment, aside from Loki.

Loki cleared his throat as he raised the flask, though his voice was still raw from the sobs he had choked back moments before. "To the family I had wished for since my mother was forced out of my life. Though we're not perfect, the fact remains that we still look out for one another despite the risk. To a sense of belonging that has been missing for far too long."

With that, Loki tilted back the flask and had taken a gulp rather than a swig. The resulting fire that raced its way down his throat caused him to cough in surprise as he forced himself to breathe through the burn.

[Sunwolf007]

“I know we didn’t get off on the right foot per say, but I won’t tell your family. Chances are I’ll never meet them, and that will make it easier to keep the promise,” Jake said.

Owen was relatively surprised at Jake. He figured out of the entire group here that Jake would be the least sympathetic. He smiled at the warrior’s attitude and his remark. Then the bottle was passed to Eri whom Owen figured would be the most sympathetic but what she said utterly surprised him.

“I’m so tired of seeing people running away from their problems or hiding behind masks. Hell, I’ve done more than my fair share of that.” Her gaze flicked upward to Jake almost out of reflex before focusing on James again, “I have nothing to toast. But if you’ll stop running and start fighting, then yes, I would drink to that.”

“Maybe you don’t understand my situation. This disease is going to kill me either way and everyone knows I am headed to Hell for the killing I have done. At least with this death I can leave something positive attached to my name. Maybe that is my only hope at changing where I end up. It’s the only hope I have had for the past year.” Owen said hoping to clarify his position. Well, didn’t see that one coming.

“Here. Maybe you can share some kind of uplifting message. Heaven knows I can’t.” Eri still sounding disgusted at Owen’s viewpoint passed the bottle to Loki. It was then that Owen could hear Raewyn and Tsume nearing the camp.

The group fell silent as they approached and not a word was spoken when they had arrived at the camp fire. Neither side seamed willing to give until Raewyn finally spoke in a childish tone. “I’m sorry!” She blurted suddenly. Clearing her throat, “I’m sorry.” She repeated more softly. “I was afraid and confused and …” She shrugged. “I was…I didn’t understand.” She kept her eyes down, avoiding eye contact with the group. She dropped her pack to one side of the fire.

When Loki spoke he sounded as if he was choking on his words but putting up a brave front, "To the family I had wished for since my mother was forced out of my life. Though we're not perfect, the fact remains that we still look out for one another despite the risk. To a sense of belonging that has been missing for far too long."

Owen couldn’t help but smile at those words. The kid was hoping that he would stick around longer but left the wording open enough to imply standing by Owen’s decision. Not to bad for a kid. Give him a few years and speaking lessons and he could be a politician. And I suppose two out of three isn’t bad. Owen thought as he retrieved his flask from Loki. It was mostly empty so after another swig he put it back into his pocket. He knew he wouldn’t be able to do a watch shift tonight because of the battle earlier. He sat down and leaned against a tree.

“Raewyn,” Owen said even though he hated using her name in a familiar tone. He kept his gaze on the fire refusing to look at her because if he did he knew he would say something that would cross a line. “I don’t presume to speak for the whole group with my next words but speak only for myself. Don’t ever slander my name again and we can put this misunderstanding behind us. You have insulted me without even realizing what you were doing so I can forgive with time but trust is harder to regain.”

He knew it was still a bit harsh but he didn’t have time to explain the whole world to her. He would much rather spend his last few precious days having fun than teaching a girl the evils of the world. He waited to hear the responses from the group not knowing what his harsh words would do.

[quakernuts]

Jake felt rather than heard the resulting thud of Eri punching the ground. As much as he wanted to explain his actions, tell everyone why he did what he did, he couldn’t bring himself to do it. Years of fighting and lying had left their mark and blackened his soul to the truth. Instead, using a different face then the one you were born with was simply the easier of the options. Jake could hear Eri storming after him, and a portion of him actually tensed up, preparing for a fight. He didn’t want to kill Eri, but his survival instinct simply wouldn’t let him lie down and die. Instead though, she simply rounded on him, pure hate in her eyes and barely controlled violence behind her words. The fact was, he had succeeded in doing what he had wanted to do from the moment that he heard her statement in the woods. The feeling was not of victory though.

Her words threw daggers into Jake’s chest, but he simply kept a neutral face and stared out into the forest. It was slightly ironic, considering that Eri was supposed to be the calm and collected warrior and Jake the unpredictable berserker. She stormed on; her words were directed at James but aimed at Jake. Jake could do little more than pretend to ignore everything that was happening. He was afraid that if he got involved, one of two things would happen. He would either confess everything about his life and why he did what he did, which he didn’t want to tell everyone for the sake that they had no reason to know. If he didn’t do that, then he would most likely end up in a berserker rage from the heated exchange, and most likely be killed, or kill everyone here. Neither option was favorable, so Jake held his peace.

Suddenly her voice changed from rage to sadness, and this hit home a lot harder than the violently filled words spilled from her just moments ago. Violence was something Jake knew and understood, but when it came to sadness, he simply didn’t have a clue. He had never been given time for sadness, and had always tried to run from it when he could. His head tilted in her general direction for a moment, a smirk on his face to hide the fact that he was indeed very somber. He wanted to say sorry, for the very first time in his life since the burning, but he couldn’t bring himself to do it. One of the many things that made him who he was today prevented him from doing the right thing.

James then tried to explain his actions. In Jake’s opinion, it was a weak argument but again he held his tongue. Last thing anybody needed was his smart ass remarks for the moment. It was about this time that Tsume and Raewyn appeared from out of the forest. An uneasy and unnerving silence filled the clearing with neither side willing to budge or point fingers. As the silence came to the point of insanity-inducing, Raewyn suddenly exploded with an apology.

“I’m sorry!” She seemed to blurt out. This grabbed Jake’s attention to her, and he slowly turned to face her. “I’m sorry. I was afraid, and confused and…I was…I didn’t understand.” Jake didn’t think anything needed to be said, but James must have thought otherwise as his harsh, but equally truthful message went out to meet the apology. He demanded that she never slander her name again, and that forgiveness and truth would come in time. Yeah, not exactly the easiest answer to an apology, but neither was Jake’s axe-swinging antics of absolute rage just a few hours ago either. After that message, Jake didn’t feel the need to say anything. This was mainly due to the fact that she probably hated his guts right now, and wouldn’t spit on him if he was on fire.

Then Loki decided to pipe up, the flask held firmly in his hand. Loki’s toast to the group probably hit Jake the hardest as he coughed slightly at the mention of the family he had wished for. He waved any eyes away as if he simply got something caught in his throat, and returned to his normal posture. When Loki took a swig though, Jake couldn’t help but laugh slightly as the kid almost coughed the fluid up just as fast. Even with the lingering tension among the group, there was still humour and life to be found among them. “Try not to get to into that stuff there kid. It’ll kill ya.” Jake held the same self assured smirk on his face as he said these words, and returned to facing out into the forest.

Among other things.

[Silvan Arrow]

Eri stood awkwardly in the midst of the group and listened to James’ response to her uncharacteristic outburst. “Maybe you don’t understand my situation. This disease is going to kill me either way and everyone knows I am headed to Hell for the killing I have done. At least with this death I can leave something positive attached to my name. Maybe that is my only hope at changing where I end up. It’s the only hope I have had for the past year.” While the words registered in her mind, her numbed heart couldn’t even begin to internalize them. She didn’t want to hear excuses, especially ones that, to her, barely held water.

Before Loki could make his toast, her ears picked up the sound of approaching footsteps, and she turned to see Tsume and Raewyn reappear. Finally, something had gone right today. Her inner turmoil of emotions faded temporarily at seeing the timid and, yes, repentatant look on Raewyn’s face. A tense silence hung over the clearing as no one moved to speak or even acknowledge the duo’s return. “I’m sorry!” Raewyn exclaimed. She cleared her throat and repeated, “I’m sorry.” She continued with her eyes downcast. “I was afraid and confused and… I was…I didn’t understand.”

Eri’s rage and sorrow started to melt at that declaration. Yes, Raewyn was finally beginning to understand what was at stake. Hopefully her little epiphany would ensure that Marinik and his allies would not make her question her loyalties again. However, it was Loki’s little speech that finally got through Eri’s numbness. "To the family I had wished for since my mother was forced out of my life. Though we're not perfect, the fact remains that we still look out for one another despite the risk. To a sense of belonging that has been missing for far too long."

Eri’s eyes actually widened a bit as she tried to process the implications of Loki’s words. Family? She hadn’t had any family other than her parents, and she hadn’t seen them in years. Not perfect? Yeah, he got that right. Look out for one another? Did they? They had only known each other for a few days, yet Loki could see the redeeming qualities in them that she couldn’t even see in herself. Sense of belonging? Eri had a brief flashback to her encounter in the forest with Jake. She had mentioned “belonging” to something then as well. Maybe it was finally starting to become a reality. Loki took a big gulp of the liquor and promptly choked as the liquid burned his throat. That was the other reason Eri didn’t drink that stuff. “Try not to get into that stuff there kid. It’ll kill ya.” She ignored Jake this time. She wouldn’t let him get under her skin yet again.

However, James once again grated on her nerves with his harsh words toward Raewyn. She could understand his irritation, but she was still too annoyed with him to think rationally this time. And besides, after everything Raewyn had gone through, the least someone could do here was offer a kind word. Eri turned to Loki first, since he was closer, and ruffled his hair affectionately with her uninjured hand. “You’re right, Loki. That’s probably the wisest statement I’ve heard all night.” She stepped away from James, Jake, and Loki and stood before Tsume and Raewyn. She nodded once in acknowledgement to Tsume before turning her attention to the young Goddess. She forced her earlier emotions behind a calm façade. No need to allude to the earlier tension now. Raewyn would probably find out on her own soon enough. “We all make mistakes, Raewyn,” Eri spoke in what she hoped was a reassuring tone. “It’s how we learn and respond to those mistakes that makes us stronger.” She paused for composure before continuing in a softer tone. “I’m sorry for earlier. I spoke out of anger and without thinking.”

Eri suddenly felt very awkward, bouncing from one emotion to the next like that. Part of her wanted to just run away or disappear, but unless a hole suddenly opened in the ground, that wasn’t happening. Instead, she settled for gingerly picking her way back to her bedroll. Her hand was starting to sting from where the air had cut it, and her mind was finally registering the pain. She reached for a roll of bandages in her pack and quickly bound her hand while waiting for someone, anyone to say or do something.

[Loki]

Tsume remained silent as he entered the campsite. The tension in the air was almost palpable and he felt confident that a lot had happened between them while he was not present. A silence stretched as they entered the small clearing, nobody sure of what to say at the moment, though his grip never left Raewyn’s. He looked at her while she apologized bringing only the faintest smile on his lips as he did his best to hide his pride. It made him happy to see that she had taken their talk to heart and was helping to guide her away from the temptation of her powers.

Although he accepted the apology, Owen still felt it was necessary to voice his own little lesson to the young Goddess. Tsume’s grip became more firm on Raewyn’s so as to help reassure her that she had made the right decision to come back with him. When Loki spoke, the Monk was surprised by how his words had effected the others; though their expressions only changed by the smallest of degrees, it was not entirely hidden when looking for it. This only reaffirmed his suspicions that he had missed something. Whatever concern he had that Raewyn would run off or lash out against Owen was stifled whenever Eri talked to her. He was surprised to find such a motherly tone from one who had lived as a loner for so long.

The tension in the environment was now beginning to subside and things went back to normal… For the most part.

---

Over the next four says, the group traveled through the wilderness without incident. The time isolated from the rest of society gave them time to explore their newfound abilities. Loki’s leg had recovered, though the wound was still freshly healed. He didn’t complain too much, needing to say off it meant that he had the perfect excuse to travel by air and practice the art of flying. Tsume spent nights meditating and Alco was now the same size he had been before Marinik had killed him. During the days, he dabbled a bit into his earth manipulation abilities and actually managed to find a way to summon portions of armor upon his body. Not nearly as powerful or encompassing as Jake’s ability, but enough to provide some simple protection to his torso, arms, and legs. He was surprised to find out that even though the armor was comprised of some sort of stone, it didn’t encumber him nearly as much as he expected it would. Further testing shown him that the negligible weight only worked for him, when he formed one around one of the others in the group, they claimed that it felt just as heavy as it looked.

Although they managed to hunt most of their meals with the aid of the summons, their other rations were beginning to run low and they needed to go into town to resupply. Tsume found a small town by the name of Janik on his map. His notes told him that it was a modernist Therian village. As opposed to the traditional Therians, modernists followed their religion while understanding that people are free to follow their own personal beliefs. Though they do not utilize Essence technology, the hold no ill will towards people who do and see Saturates and the Goddess as the people they are rather than the powers they possess.

Janik was a small farming community whose wealth was measured more in neighborly interactions than material goods. Every building that stood clearly shown the experienced craftsmanship and dedication that the townsfolk put into its construction. The town square only consisted of a small town hall and a few stores ranging from general merchandise to simple, though high quality, hand tools. All the citizens who met the gaze of the group gave them a polite smile and a friendly nod as they carried on about their business without a second glance.

“There’s no need to all crowd the small store when we already know what we need." Tsume turned and looked at the others. "Eri and Jake, would you please join me in making sure I get everything we need since you two are the most experienced with travelling in the backcountry? Raewyn, Loki, and James, feel free to wander around; these people are friendly and will not give you trouble as long as you don’t start any. Just try not to wander off too far, we won’t be gone too long.”

[Silvan Arrow]

Over the next four days, a semblance of normality returned to the group as the tedium of foot travel established a routine. After Raewyn’s return, a good night’s sleep greatly helped Eri stabilize her tumultuous emotions. While she was starting to open up more, she still tended to remain silent unless someone addressed her first. However, the others quickly learned that her silence was not overt coldness like it had been at the beginning. She spoke mostly with Raewyn, Loki, and Tsume when she actually talked, Raewyn so she could have a female companion, Loki so she could instruct him, and Tsume so she could learn some of his summoning techniques. She managed to glean some meditation techniques from watching him meditate with Alco in the evenings and tried to practice those with Arashi during her night watches.

However, she couldn’t seem to get past the tension that had built between her and Jake. She and James still didn’t see eye-to-eye regarding his legacy, but they maintained civil discussion and could put aside their differences to work together. Jake, on the other hand, she did her best to avoid. Luckily, Eri could invent numerous excuses to keep her distance, primarily so she could focus on Loki’s training. He practiced flying during the day so he could stay off his healing leg, and Eri often sent Arashi into the sky under the pretence of acting as a scout. While that part was true, she mainly wanted to avoid a repeat of a random enemy shooting the boy out of the sky. She rode on Arashi’s back sometimes during the afternoons, the duo keeping to the cover of the cloud banks to conceal their presence, but they always kept a watchful eye over Eri’s pupil. She and Loki also spent the evenings practicing by the campfire after the group set up camp for the night.

Flashback – The First Evening

Eri waited until the group had finished dinner and cleaned the dishes before getting Loki’s attention. His leg had healed enough that they could work on basic stances and movements, but she would save sparring for later to give him more time to recover. She and Loki moved to an open spot on the outskirts of the campsite. Eri ignored the curious gazes of the others and focused on the boy in front of her. “Since this is your first lesson and your leg is still healing, we’ll start with some basic stances and move slowly.” She drew her father’s sword and also summoned Gale Cleaver so she could duel-wield like Loki. “When you find yourself facing either one enemy or a group, here is a basic defensive stance that will also give you room to counterattack.” She demonstrated the stance, though she had to reverse it since she was left-handed and Loki was right-handed. Loki quickly tried to mirror her stance. “Hold still,” she said, straightening and circling him to inspect his stance. “Widen your stance just a bit more. Otherwise you’ll get off-balance.” She nudged his feet with the toe of her boot so that one foot was slightly ahead of the other. “Turn more to the side, and don’t ever charge straight ahead in close combat. You’ll just expose your torso to the enemy.” She placed her hands on his shoulders and gently turned him into the desired position. “One last thing…” She moved his arms so he held his katars closer to his body to better protect his chest and head.

Eri nodded in satisfaction. “Good.” She moved back around to face him while he practiced holding the stance and drew her weapons again. “Now, you should think of your katars as extensions of your arms, as parts of your body. Your strikes should draw strength from your center,” she gestured to just below her stomach, “not just your arms. Close combat with weapons, like you already observed, is about finesse and redirecting your opponent’s blows rather than brute strength.” Once she was satisfied that he understood, she went through several more stances and basic movement patterns, strikes, and parries before calling it a night.

End Flashback

During the next three nights, Eri gradually eased Loki into sparring. She started off with using sticks instead of their real weapons so they wouldn’t accidently hurt each other. At first, they went through the movements at half speed, giving Loki a chance to practice his strikes and counters in slow motion while going easy on his leg. To Eri’s immense satisfaction, Loki proved a quick study, and by the fourth night they were sparring lightly at full speed with the training sticks. He still had much to learn, particularly with circling and striked at angles rather than head-on, but Eri had no doubt he would improve quickly.

The days spent in training also allowed Eri to practice with her new powers. While she worked on patterns to teach Loki during lunch, she also worked on her new User ability of air manipulation. She practiced control so her emotions wouldn’t accidently trigger blades of air that would cut her again. As it turned out, her air manipulation was much different from Marinik’s in that it was connected more with her sword fighting rather than brutal air pushes and drowning techniques. She learned to concentrate currents of slicing wind around Gale Cleaver’s blade to add extra cutting power to her strikes. The air around the blade could also create mini-gusts to knock an opponent off-balance when the sword connected. She could also swing her sword to send blade-shaped gusts of air as projectiles to slice through objects. That ability took a lot more Essence, and she still needed to practice her aim. Luckily, her new powers had the beneficial side effect of increasing the amount of Essence she could safely use. As a result, she could now summon Gale Cleaver and also morph the blade of her father’s sword to match. Practicing with Loki meant she improved her duel-wielding skills, which she had learned from her last battle could save her life.

As Alco regained his former size and strength, Eri noticed Arashi developing a friendly rivalry with the griffin. Arashi tried to catch more game for their meals than Alco and seemed uncharacteristically smug the few times he succeeded. However, Eri sensed that her partner was much happier than she had seen him in a long time. Alco was the first summon creature Arashi had ever met for longer than a fleeting encounter and was possibly his only friend other than his mistress.

And so the days passed, until dwindling supplies forced the group to stop in Janik to restock. When Tsume first mentioned their Therian culture, Eri had bristled until learning that they were much more tolerant of Seedist beliefs. And while she could plainly see that the people were friendly, she couldn’t completely drop her guard. Old habits die hard, afterall.

“There’s no need to all crowd the small store when we already know what we need," Tsume announced as he addressed the group. "Eri and Jake, would you please join me in making sure I get everything we need since you two are the most experienced with travelling in the backcountry?”

‘Oh no. You’ve got to be kidding. Absolutely not. No way. NO,’ Eri thought in disbelief, but her mouth betrayed her by deadpanning, “As you wish.” She did not want to be stuck with Jake with only Tsume as an intermediary, no matter how short a timespan. She had barely spoken to him since nearly picking a fight with him four days ago. If he tried any of his sarcastic jabs now, she doubted even Tsume would be able to restrain her from drawing her blade on him.

Eri kept her martyred expression carefully hidden as she followed the two men to the store. After the storeowner greeted them, Eri moved off toward the stock of medical supplies in the next room to gather more bandages, salves, and medicinal herbs. As she helped with restocking the group’s food, the displays of fresh vegetables caught her eye. They had been eating mostly wild game lately and would probably jump at the chance to have fresh produce. She dipped into her personal funds and bought a few fresh carrots, potatoes, and onions for their next meal. And they were in luck. Apples were in season, so she picked out a choice red apple for each person. Now laden with supplies, she waited near the door for Tsume and Jake to finish shopping.

[quakernuts]

Jake couldn’t say that the tension between him and Eri had lessened in any manner. He could tell she was avoiding him, but throughout the years, he had become used to that feeling. Knowing that someone wanted nothing to do with you, and there was next to nothing you could, or would do to fix that. So, during the four days that they had traveled together, Jake kept up the act. He threw in his usual sarcastic banter to show the group he hadn’t changed one bit. His jabs were now aimed at everyone else but Eri though, as he could sense that she was on the verge of actually lashing out. Personally, he didn’t want to defend himself against such an assault, but instinctually he knew that his body would act out of reflex and possibly kill her before he had a chance to realize what he was doing. Every once in awhile, he would spend a few minutes bugging her to throw off any suspicion about them two, but he kept it to a bare minimum.

During their travels, he had managed to mess with his new armor ability, and found some interesting things about it. For starters, he could summon his armor on a certain section of his body if he chose. An example would be covering his arm in earth, but nothing else and using his arm as a club. Second, his armor could change shape and size if he chose to. The first armor that he had already used was basically what he labeled as his ‘Berserker’ armor. That was the thickest and biggest he had managed to make himself. Other than that though, he had managed to make a very thin layer of armor that retained his natural speed, and he could also transform his arms into giant spikes. Considering he liked using his fists mainly in a fight, the spikes would definitely come in handy. Those were the two main advancements, but he could also summon the armor twice as quickly now, and could also don it while on the move. With these in mind, Jake’s confidence soared. He was already a beast on the field of battle. With the armor and spikes, he would be next to unstoppable. At least, he would be unstoppable once he was able to focus.

Second Night

It had been a slow day, with conversations being little to none. Jake had been quiet the entire day, and explained to the others that he was concentrating on controlling his new ability. Truthfully though, he couldn’t find anything funny about their current situation. It was dull, drab, and completely void of excitement. The longest he had gone without a fight since he started his whole new life had been three days. The only reason for that being that it took three days to reach the next pub, where he proceeded to insult some guy’s manhood, and beat him and several of his friends to a pulp before being thrown out of the building by security. As the day came to a close, and everyone started settling down to rest from the long day of travel, Jake felt his eyes starting to get heavy. He hadn’t been sleeping really well, since he had deemed himself sort of the night guard. He would often be awake long after everyone was asleep, and was always the first one up. This was much to the surprise of everyone else in the group, who deemed him irresponsible, but he simply shrugged and said he didn’t sleep much anyways.

As soon as the group managed to make their camp for the night, Jake instantly settled down. He downed his meal with the same enthusiasm as always, and made a few sarcastic remarks towards everyone, and then settled in for the night. He needed to get a few good hours of sleep; otherwise his ability in a fight would start to be hampered. Maybe someone would attack tomorrow, and then Jake would have something to impress the others with. His armor ability was coming along nicely, and he was dripping with anticipation to try it out on some poor soul who thought he could take the mighty Jake. His head rested against the ground, and he tried to grab some sleep.

A large bang from somewhere bolted him upright instantly, and he looked around for the others. To his surprise, they were nowhere in sight. The camp was as it was when they had settled in, but their bodies were missing. Standing slowly and grabbing his axe, he made his way to the tree line. Something must have happened to make them all bolt so quickly, but why had they not bothered to even inform him? Maybe whatever had attacked them had taken them all by so much surprise, that they couldn’t have even managed a warning. Jake’s mind was filled with reasons and excuses of why the others would simply abandon him. His thoughts were brought to a sudden halt when light could be seen in the distance. Without concern for himself, he rushed forward. Sound started filing his ears, but it wasn’t until he had exited the forest that he figured out exactly what it was.

It was fire.

Buildings were burning all around him, and the flames seemed to lick the sky. Screams could be heard all around him as he charged forward. Men leveling heavy weaponry such as battle axes and war hammers turned to meet him. A simple yell and a few slices left the men in shreds as Jake’s run continued with no momentum lost. Each corner he turned, more men came to meet him, and he continued slashing them until they were unrecognizable. It wasn’t until he came upon the town square, that he found the source of the screaming.

People were being tossed into fires. Men, women, and children were all fuel for the soul devouring scene of destruction. As Jake was stricken by the sight, reminded of his own home town to easily, a large group of men moved to intercept him. They were large, and more heavily built then Jake. A few of them were even duel wielding battle axes, and swung them between their fingers with practiced precision. Jake didn’t snap out of his reverie until the first hammer was swung. It was then that he entered a lopsided battle with him just barely able to hold back the wave of men. Suddenly, the entire group of men backed away, leaving Jake in the middle, confused and bloodied. The sound of clapping hands could be heard over the roar of the fire. Sweat beaded down his face and back as he desperately looked for the bearer of the sound.

“You fight like you have nothing to lose Jake.”

That voice…

“Truly, what is a man worth if he fights for nothing, hmm?”

No, not now…

“Yes, now. You have learned the truth, yet you can not save yourself. You, sir, are a pathetic piece of human machinery.”

The shadowy figure appeared near the large bonfire, his hands still coming together to form the ever oppressive clapping. The smile widened, but it was with malicious intent rather than happiness. His red eyes bore back into Jake, just like the time in the clearing.

“I stopped you! I killed you!” Jake yelled out at his primal side, which was only answered with a laugh.

“Boy, you cannot kill me unless you kill yourself. I am you! Without me, you are nothing. Your so called ‘indestructibility’ is all in due to me.”

“I don’t need you! I never have!”

“On the contrary Jake, you needed me a little too much. Every insult! Every fist thrown! Every life taken! That was me Jake! I did that, and you enjoyed every single bloody minute of it!”

“No more! I control my life, not you!”

“So you think you can stop me Jake? Hah, let’s put you to the test then, hmm?”

A wooden podium appeared behind the Primal Jake, and Jake’s mouth dropped as he saw who was on there. Tsume, Loki, James, Raewyn, and Eri were all unconscious and tied to a pole upon the podium. The fire licked at their feet, and Jake completely lost it. A yell escaped his mouth as he literally shoulder charged one of the brutes into the fire. A swing of his axe brought another one down to the ground, and a frenzy enhanced punch broke another man’s neck. The entire time, the Primal Jake was laughing.

“See, we’ve switched places Jake.”

Jake stopped and looked. The Primal Jake was no longer shrouded in darkness, and instead, was a mirror copy of him. A flare from the fire forced him to bring his hand to cover his eyes, and he got a good look at his hand.

It was covered in shadows.

Jake looked down to see his entire body was encompassed in the foul blackness that his Primal Side was. He tried to tear it off, to no avail. As he continually got frantic, and tried harder and harder to claw the shadows off, they seemed to grow in power. Poisonous laughter filled the space once more, and Jake stopped long enough to look at his other self.

“I am you. The sooner you learn that, the sooner you will understand, and embrace me.” A snap of his fingers, and the group was engulfed in flames.

“N…” Jake sat ramrod straight with a hand covering his mouth. His chest heaved with the effort of breathing, and sweat was pouring from his body. Looking around, he found himself back in the camp. The others were resting nearby, and everyone was enjoying the sleep that they were getting. Jake’s hand fell from his mouth, and a couple minutes of staring into nothingness brought his heart back to its normal pace. The dream had been so real that he hadn’t even realized he had dozed off. He was losing control in more ways than one, and he wondered whether his grip on reality would suddenly loosen and drown him in his own primal urges.

Looking at the others, he realized he had to keep this a secret. If they knew he was about to lose his sanity, they would no doubt leave him behind. He couldn’t, wouldn’t allow that. This was the first group that had, more or less, accepted him for who he was. For the first time, he felt a sense of belonging, and he wasn’t about to give that up. He quietly stood up from his position, and moved to the outer-most reaches of the group, and leaned against a tree. The sun could be seen on the horizon, and the cold sweat that had drenched him in his sleep had nearly dried completely.

It would be time to move soon.

The sound of civilization brought Jake out of his memory, and back into the present time. His hands clenched and flexed without any visible effort or acknowledgement. Four days had passed since Jake had gotten into a fight, a new record for the man. He flexed his shoulders, and did his best to suppress his grumpy mood as he entered the town. Sure, they were Therians, but they were also modernists. Part of him wished they were traditionalists just so he could get into a battle with someone. However, the polite smiles and nods erased any such hope, and he tried his best to not insult some big blacksmith into a fist fight.

As they entered the town, Tsume called upon Jake and Eri to help him in gathering supplies. Upon hearing Eri’s cool response, Jake couldn’t help but add a jab in there. “Don’t sound so thrilled.” His tone was a bit harsher than what it usually was, but anyone could tell he was not in a good mood. In this sort of condition, he was more likely to hit someone first, and ask questions later. Although that was his usual style of doing things, he was simply more likely to do it in his current state.

Jake wandered through the store, and watched as Eri picked up the medical and food supplies. Taking that information into account, Jake gathered what he deemed important that she didn’t grab. He picked up some flint, a few sheets, and even a portable tent that could hold two. At least the kids can use this if it rains Jake thought to himself as he grabbed it. A bit of rope, a compass, and a water bucket complete with mesh netting to keep out the bugs. Rainwater was a traveler’s savior, granted that it did rain. Grabbing a few smaller things, Jake paid for the rest of the equipment, and went to the main door. There, Eri stood waiting for them at the entrance. Her eyes seemed to follow him as he made his way forward, and he could feel holes start to burn into his head. As he stood beside her, his jab was meant more as a warning than an actual playful saying. “I know I’m sexy and all, but if you don’t stop burning holes in my chest, we’re going to have problems. You watch my back in a fight, and I’ll watch yours. Other than that, you can have your precious me-time.” Jake continued to look through the store, searching for Tsume, but his tone left no argument. He was grumpy, and to argue with him right now would most likely end up in a very bad situation for everyone.

[Sunwolf007]

Owen kept himself busy over the next few days. He didn’t not talk with the group but he was, like the rest of them, keeping busy to not discuss the intense topics covered. He held a few conversations with them but for the most part he kept up a rigorous training schedule with his new found powers. He still tried to discern which he had acquired and kept finding himself using elements of both time manipulation and regeneration when he purposely injured himself. He was having a hard time figuring out the correlation between the two. He decided it would be best not to use the new abilities in combat until he fully understood them. He did become better at the use of slight time manipulation although he made no progress with the regeneration as it was always an unconscious decision to heal himself. Thus the few days of travel felt like nothing to Owen until they arrived in Janik. It looked like a small little town that technology forgot as it didn’t even have a telegraph station. The whole town looked peaceful to Owen which made him feel on edge. How the hell am I going to find a fight to the death here if no one wants to even fight? Damn this sucks and I only got 3 days left!

Owen split up with the kids of the group and decided to check out what passed as a market in the town. He spent the time looking at things and making a few jokes with the kids while he kept an eye out for trouble. That was when he spotted the man he had been looking for ever since he was 17. It was the man that had been directly involved with his brother’s death. He stood at medium height and had a medium build with black hair and black eyes. His name was David Smith and he had spotted Owen as well. He smiled and walked over to the trio.

“Owen it has been some time since I have seen you. I was hoping to find your brother as I heard he was supposed to be in this town.” David said.

“I believe you are mistaken good sir. I am James Colston. Have we met before?” Owen said trying to keep his cover.

“No I have met your brother James before and you are not him although you do look a lot like him. We had some old business to discuss about a … disagreement.” David responded.

“Well, I can continue the discussion as a Gentleman after I have shown my fellow travelers to our hotel. Say, meet up north of town in one hour?” Owen’s eyes sparkled as he had finally found his fight. Today would be the day and no one was going to rob that from him.

“I look forward to our Gentleman’s disagreement being discussed in full until the end.”

“As do I.” David said with a smile. Owen turned and almost pushed the kids out of the market towards the only hotel in the small town. With his back turned to David he took the chance to quietly explain what was going on.

“That man is an enemy. I need you both to stay in our room until the others arrive.” Owen said as the closed the distance to the building. He escorted them both inside as he checked his guns. They were all fully loaded and ready to go. He pulled out his bag of coins and placed them on the table.

“This should pay for everything you might need until you get to the temple. Once they arrive here let them know we have been followed,” Owen said as he quickly took off towards the door. “Lock this door and don’t let anyone else in. Today is the day.”

Sitting on a table in the room was a letter addressed to ‘the monk of the Temple of the Goddess” marked “to be opened immediately upon receiving”. Owen didn’t notice the letter even though it was in plain sight. He hurried on his way to the appointed part of the town so he wouldn’t be late. I can’t believe this good fortune! I can avenge my brother and attain my legacy all in the same day!

[Digital Muse]

The days spent travelling to the town of Janik were spent in sleepless fear for Raewyn. She was terrified of losing control of her power while she slept. While the others spent their time learning to deal with their new-found powers, Raewyn slowly became more aware of her own unexpected power. Even as the birds fell silent above their heads while they passed through the forest, she could still hear and smell the hidden animals and insects and every plant around them. It took her all of those four days to pick out individual sounds and scents.

While at first the overload of unusual information was overwhelming to Raewyn, she slowly learned to pick and choose what she could focus on. She learned the scent and rhythm of the heartbeats of each of her companions. Tsume’s was always slow and steady. Loki’s was faster and skipped whenever he lifted into the air to practice flying. Jake and James’ were remarkably similar, but Jake’s slumber often caused his heart to race erratically. Eri’s was faster than Jake or James’ and always slowed significantly when she interacted with Arashi. Their individual patterns became a soporific rhythm when the group settled for the night.

Raewyn tried to spend her time meditating as Tsume had taught her. She wanted to control her power, so she didn’t accidentally bleed emotions or thoughts as she had in the past. She was secretly jealous of the calm the others showed. Slowly, Raewyn became aware of the tension between Jake and Eri and Eri and James. She wondered about it, hating that she didn’t know what was going on. She began studying the three surreptitiously; drawing her own conclusions. Eri and Jake made special effort not to meet one another’s gaze as they travelled and Jake didn’t tease Eri nearly as much as he had in the past. Contrary to that, when she thought no one was looking, Eri’s gaze occasionally lingered disapprovingly on James. Something had happened between them and evidently Loki knew what it was too.

When they approached Janik and Tsume explained that the inhabitants were friendly, though didn’t use Essence, Raewyn felt everyone’s heart rate increase. They were cautious and tense despite the monk’s assurances. She could smell their fear, but James’ was different. She couldn’t pinpoint why though. Entering the town and noting the friendly nods and smiles from the residents made everyone’s heart rate calm down which relieved Raewyn’s mind immensely.

The group split up to gather supplies leaving Eri, Loki and James to wander the town as they wished. Raewyn wanted to find some replacement clothes since hers had been so damaged in her fight with the mercenary Captain. She was still drawn to the bright colors of the light dresses and blouses, but her experience in the wilderness thus far lead her to the more serviceable trousers and a warm jacket. As they wandered through the streets, Loki appeared to be enjoying the relaxed atmosphere and the pair munched on some lovely fruit James bought for them.

Suddenly, Raewyn heard James’ heart rate shoot up. She snapped her eyes up to spy a dark-haired man with a smug smile approaching them. The stilted, weird conversation was over almost before it began and James hustled her and Loki toward their inn. He shoved a back of coin into Loki’s hand as he explained what had just happened and then he was gone again. Raewyn frowned heavily at the door leading back outside. “Why did that man call James Owen?” She looked around at Loki, “What is going on here? You know something about this, don’t you?”

Her eyes pinned the young man with an accusing gaze. “What’s going on, Loki?” Not giving Loki a real chance to answer her, Raewyn made her own decision. “We need to tell the others. James shouldn’t go alone.” She announced. “Come on.” She really didn’t give poor Loki a choice as she exited the room to find Tsume and the others. This time, she was determined that she was going to do the right thing. Weaving through the town to the store, Raewyn dodged about the people in her path. Finally the store came into sight. Bursting inside, she found Eri first. Racing up to her, she grabbed the young Summoner’s sleeve. “Eri! James is in trouble!” A bit melodramatic, perhaps, but she felt it was the best way to get the rest of the group to mobilize without too many delaying questions.

[Loki]

Things happened too fast after the stranger confronted James for Loki to get a full grasp of what was happening. One moment the stranger was calling his friend by a different name with such conviction that even Loki was beginning to wonder which was the real name. The next moment, Raewyn and him were rushed to their room, handed a pouch of money, and then abandoned by their chaperone. Even when James left the room, Loki hadn’t gotten a chance to piece together what had just happened before Raewyn hit him with a barrage of questions that he had already been asking himself.

“Why did that man call James Owen? What is going on here? You know something about this, don’t you?”

“Well--”

“What’s going on, Loki?”

“I--“

“We need to tell the others. James shouldn’t go alone. Come on.”

“But--“ Before he could get out any form of objection so that the two could weigh their options, Raewyn had already turned and rushed out of the room.

“GAH! Raewyn! Wait up!” He called out to her as he pursued her quickly fading footsteps down the hall.

---

If there was any doubt that there was tension between Eri and Jake, the outburst in the middle of the store effectively cleared what little uncertainty remained. Tsume had no idea how to approach this since he had no idea what caused this friction and felt that interfering would only make matters worse. He wished there was something he could do, a rift this big in the cohesiveness of the team could very well spell disaster for their mission if there is another large-scale skirmish. Before things between them could escalate, Raewyn and Loki barged into the shop without Owen among them. This realization sent a surge of dread throughout him and was but a moment away from arming himself within the store to prepare for combat before she spoke.

“Eri! James is in trouble!”

Tsume slammed a small handful of coins on the counter that he knew would be enough to pay for their provisions plus extra just to make sure as a moment before the five of them left the small shop. “Where did he go?”

”They said they were going to have something called a ‘gentleman’s disagreement’ to the north of town.” Loki spoke, looking as uncertain about the situation as the Monk felt. A gentleman’s disagreement? Why would he duel somebody when we are trying to keep a low profile on our mission? This turn of affairs had only risen so many more concerns. After all, Owen could very well be walking right into a trap to be used as bait for the rest of us. Whatever was going to happen, Tsume knew they had to act fast.

“Eri, send the summons ahead to find James and look for any potential ambush.” No sooner had he finished saying that than Alco materialized next to him and took off to the north as his master wished.

[Sunwolf007]

I have killed many men in my days on this earth but this is the only one I have ever looked forward to. I always regretted taking everything a man has been and everything he will be in an instant. This man’s actions have caused me to be in this miserable situation and for that he will pay dearly. This day I have been looking forward to for years. Ever since… he died… I will have my revenge even if it costs me my life James will be avenged.

Owen made his way to the north side of the town. He reflected on his journey with his fellow comrades. It’s better this way. They wont know the greatest sin I have committed and will continue to protect the Goddess-in-training. They don’t need a killer like me soiling their reputation when they have Jake doing that already. He is a hell of a man and will protect them far better than I could. The monk is way more steadfast than I have been and he, like me, will never lose sight as to what she needs to learn. Hopefully Eri can eventually forgive me for dying on her. She seams like a very willful women. We would have gotten along grand if we weren’t so similar in steadfastness. I wish I could see Loki grow, the kid has so much potential at such a young age. He will be a great leader some day and I hope he is the one that breaks the news to my family as it would help him understand that the world is not as it should be. Goddess-in-training I hope you don’t blame yourself for this as it was always my decision to end my life. I hope that this event doesn’t set her down the wrong path… again…

He reached the north section of town with no difficulties and suddenly thought of his opponent being less than truthful about a one on one duel. Then he realized that there was no way that this would be a set up. He knew his opponent well enough to know that they both wanted this. This would settle the matter of James guilt once and for all. Owen knew that his enemy wanted to settle the killing of his first weapon dealer contact as much as James’ brother wanted revenge. There would be no ambush or foul play this would be a duel to the death and the winner would write history as they saw fit just as others had done before them.

Owen pulled his pocket watch from his pocket and checked the time. He had a half hour before the appointed time. He surveyed the land to see if maybe he could get an advantage on his opponent. The land was mostly forested and in the background he could see the taller, darker and taller trees from where he had come from. This place is perfect. Enough cover for each of us and hopefully we are both equally unfamiliar with the ground.

Owen pulled his flask almost subconsciously from his pocket. Usually before a duel he always steadied his nerves with a drink. This time he hesitated and decided against it.

Not this time. I have never enjoyed killing but this time I will. This time I will get what I always wanted… Justice.

[Silvan Arrow]

Eri could feel her mental walls crumbling and her control slipping with every passing second. The tension she sensed between her and Jake was practically palpable, made even worse by their close physical proximity in the small general store. And apparently the feeling was mutual. “I know I’m sexy and all, but if you don’t stop burning holes in my chest, we’re going to have problems. You watch my back in a fight, and I’ll watch yours. Other than that, you can have your precious me-time.”

‘That does it…’ she started to snap.

Mistress, you must calm yourself, Arashi urged as he desperately sent soothing waves of peace and calm through their link.

Luckily, or perhaps unluckily, Eri’s attention was quickly diverted by the sound of the door slamming open to reveal a red-faced, panicked Raewyn. Loki dashed in on her heels looking completely baffled and concerned as well. The young Goddess sought Eri first and grabbed her sleeve. Startled, she initially flinched from the sudden physical contact but quickly pushed it aside as the young girl exclaimed, “Eri! James is in trouble!”

A knot of ice-cold dread formed in the pit of Eri’s gut. ‘The fool! He couldn’t be…’ Her expression immediately turned serious, and she gently but firmly placed both hands on Raewyn’s shoulders to get her full attention. “All right, calm down, Raewyn, and tell me exactly what happened,” she urged in as calm of a voice as she could muster.

Luckily, Tsume snapped to attention and quickly took charge of the situation. After slamming some coins on the counter, he led the group out of the shop and asked, “Where did he go?”

”They said they were going to have something called a ‘gentleman’s disagreement’ to the north of town,” Loki replied, still utterly confused.

The phrase ‘gentleman’s disagreement’ confirmed the dread Eri had felt. Of course she had heard of duels. Her father had taken every precaution to shield her from the rougher side of living in the city after they have moved from the town of her birth. Her hand flew to her mouth out of reflex as her eyes widened to betray her emotions. “Oh no…” she murmured.

Tsume’s calm, commanding voice gave her a blessed anchor to reality. “Eri, send the summons ahead to find James and look for any potential ambush.”

Eri didn’t waste words with a reply but instead turned on her heel and moved a short distance from the group, calling Gale Cleaver wordlessly to her hand. Essence leaped into the blade, fueled by the urgency of her emotions, and a quick slash through the air brought the white eagle into existence before her. Arashi spread his wings and gave a determined screech before crouching down. “I’ll do one better and find the fool myself,” Eri said as she leaped onto Arashi’s back and settled between his shoulder blades. She turned back and met Tsume’s gaze. “I’ll have Arashi relay the coordinates when we find him and if we locate any enemies.” That said, she gave Arashi the wordless signal, and he leaped into the sky after Alco.

While the griffin went north in search of James, Eri directed Arashi to make a wide sweep of the town as they gained altitude to try and conceal their presence. She opened their mental link wider and allowed her senses to meld with his so she could share in his enhanced eyesight. ‘Everything seems to be normal. What do you sense?’ she asked.

I detect no unusual movements from the people that would betray an ambush, nor do I sense any malicious intentions, Arashi replied. Once they completed their sweep, Arashi suddenly tensed as his eyes locked onto something. I see James.

Eri followed Arashi’s gaze to a clearing surrounded by forest on the north side of town. ‘You’re right. Okay, let’s make our approach…but cautiously. And we need to inform Tsume.’

Right. Opening the link to Tsume didn’t hurt quite as much this time, but Eri’s head still throbbed nonetheless. Tsume, my mistress and I did not find anything betraying an ambush, but we have spotted James. He sent a series of mental images showing how to reach the gunman’s location. Then he clamped down on the link just enough that Eri couldn’t hear his next words. …Please have patience with Eri. She’s not been herself since the last battle. With his message relayed, he let the link drop.

Eri directed Arashi into a low, sweeping flight as they closed in on James. Closer inspection did not reveal any other figures, though Eri had a feeling Alco was somewhere nearby. Satisfied that the area was relatively safe, Eri dismissed Gale Cleaver as Arashi arrowed towards the ground and landed behind James at the edge of the clearing. He gave an angry shriek, a mere echo of his mistress’ emotions, as he landed in a crouch, wings half-furled, and allowed Eri to dismount. She stalked forward and turned furious eyes toward James. “What do you think you’re doing out here, James?” Eri demanded in an eerily calm tone of voice. “Are you so eager to die that you would just come out here and fight to the death without telling anyone?” She crossed her arms over her chest and continued, “The kids are worried sick about you, and Tsume thought we had been ambushed again. What happened to us all looking out for each other?” She locked jade green eyes with James’ and awaited his response.

[quakernuts]

The tension in the air only seemed to intensify once the words came out of his mouth. Already adrenaline was pumping into his body as Jake's mind prepared for a battle. In all honesty, he didn't want to fight Eri, but he didn't want anyone to start caring for him either. Every step he took, he could feel that goal coming ever closer, and his feeling of self-damnation only doubled every time. When she started to snap, his fists curled into balls, and time seemed to slow as his reflexes kicked in automatically. If she hit him, he would no longer be in control, no matter how much he would like to say otherwise. Luckily, before things could come to the worst possible conclusion, a young and out of breath Goddess appeared in the store. As she labelled out was happening, the timing couldn't be better. He was geared for a fight, and it appeared the fight had come to him. Nice change of pace Jake thought to himself as he watched Tsume lead the group out of the store.

They started walking at a steady pace for an uncertain location, and Tsume ordered the summons ahead of them. Eri took off with hers, and Jake was glad to see her go. It wasn't so much that he simply didn't want to be in her presence, but more about the fact that she had come close to attacking him. Everyone was travelling at a light jog now, and Jake had to hold back his arm from grabbing his axe and twirling it around in his fingers out of habit. "So, let's get this straight. James is going to have a duel to the death...when he's already pledged himself to protect a certain someone among our group? I'm sorry, but doesn't that seem a little counter productive?" Jake shrugged as he jogged with the group, and then a small smile started to creep onto his face. "Maybe his 'gentleman's disagreement' will turn into a 'Jake smashes anything that moves disagreement'!" Jake looked around for a moment, before adding; "Well, not you guys of course, but you get the point."

Tsume seemed to stop dead in his tracks for a moment before changing direction. "Eri's found him." Those were his only words as he quickly took off in a separate direction, and the others were forced to follow. Jake's smile only seemed to widen as the prospect of a fight became more and more likely. His muscles were tense from the peace of the past three days, and he was eager to try out some of his new powers on some unfortunate victim. Calm Jake, you're thinking like a psychotic Jake thought to himself as he kept pace. Keep your cool until the timing is right. There is no need to be thinking these thoughts. He forced himself to calm down, but it was hard. He blamed it on the fact that he hadn't really 'loosened up' for the past little while, but he blamed another part of it on his slipping grip on his sanity.

As they got ever closer, and Jake saw where James really was, then he tensed up. The setting was perfect for an ambush, with their party out in the open and anyone wanting, willing or able to fire on them would have ample cover from retaliation. The axe was in his hands, and twirling between his fingers as his habit took over his conscious thoughts. Eri was staring down James, and for the first time, Jake finally relaxed around her. Her attention was focused elsewhere, so there was no need for him to be on guard. Well, from her anyways. He still didn't like the whole situation right at the moment, but he followed the others out into the clearing, being sure to check the surrounding forest for anything that might indicate an ambush.

"James, I thought we were buddies?! You go off about to fight something, and don't even bring the almighty Jake along? Wow man, just wow." Jake's signature smirk was back, but he was simply adding a lightness to the otherwise morbid air. Everyone, including him slightly, were not impressed with this act of...redemption? Revenge? Stupidity? Jake didn't know, or care to know the reason of this duel, but he knew they needed to get out of here. They were being hunted, and staying out in the open like this was just asking for someone to come in and kill them all.

[Sunwolf007]

Owen leaned against a tree while he began mentally preparing himself for the fight. I don’t know much about this fellow except his face and name. It was like he never existed or was a ghost. I have no idea what his capabilities are but I do know he is very confident in them. His lack of visible weapons shows that. James never mentioned his abilities either. Well, I should start off slow and work my way through my weapons to find a weakness that I can exploit. He heard the sound of a landing of a large bird behind him. He whirled around and aimed his rifle at the source of the noise only to find a rather angry Eri standing before him. NO! This wasn’t supposed to be how this happened! Damn!

“What do you think you’re doing out here, James?” Eri demanded in an eerily calm tone of voice. “Are you so eager to die that you would just come out here and fight to the death without telling anyone?” She crossed her arms over her chest and continued, “The kids are worried sick about you, and Tsume thought we had been ambushed again. What happened to us all looking out for each other?”

That means the others are coming as well! No this is all wrong!

“You, wouldn’t understand what I am doing out here. I don’t think any of you would.” Owen let his contempt for her actions slip as he lowered his rifle. He knew there was no turning back now, “This isn’t just anyone I am dueling but the person I have practiced years for to kill. This is my personal matter and no one else’s. I must also point out that it is MY life to keep or lose as I see fit. What right do any of you have to tell me how to live or die?”

He heard the rest of the group approaching and knew that he would have to tread very carefully if he wanted to keep his secrets safe. He pulled his pocket watch and checked the time. He had slightly less than 20 minutes before David showed up.

"James, I thought we were buddies?! You go off about to fight something, and don't even bring the almighty Jake along? Wow man, just wow." Jake's signature smirk was back, but he was simply adding a lightness to the otherwise morbid air.

“The reason I didn’t include you was because you all were not involved. This is a personal matter and I would like it handled as such. You all should wait for me at the hotel or better yet leave ahead of me as I know he is connected to the group that is after us.” Owen said in a calm voice trying to regain control of the situation.

“And now I know for a fact you are involved with this small group Owen.” David announced himself as he walked into view from a forest fog. “I had my doubts about James joining them. I figured it would be incredibly difficult with him being dead. Did you take your brother’s name to draw me out?”

And there it is. The one accusation he knows I can’t deny truthfully or partially if I am with anyone who is intelligent. I deny it I have to give an alternate explanation for my contempt. I agree with it I give away my past. Owen thought about his next actions very carefully before deciding that they would find out anyway now that the enemy knew who he really was.

“That was my father’s idea. Why should I even answer your questions? What right do you have to even mention my brother?” Owen inquired of David showing no emotion.

“As his mentor in sales and friend I have every right to know what happened that night Owen. Don’t you agree?” David replied keeping his emotions in check as much as Owen.

“Why should I listen to your corrupting words? You are responsible for what happened to him!” Owen exclaimed losing his calm voice.

“Not nearly so much as you are Owen. As far as I know you pulled the trigger.” David again directly accused Owen.

“What I want to know is why do you need to know things you already figured out for yourself? I am sure you know what happened that night.” Owen attempted to regain his calm but in his voice was carried the contempt for this man.

“I wish to hear it in your own words your explanation for your sinful actions.”

“Those words are not for your ears. You would never understand as I would never understand your explanation of your sinful actions.”

“I am sure your friends would love to hear the story though. What do you all think?” David asked looking at the group gathered behind Owen, “You want to know the truth of his core motivation don’t you? Why would you steal your brother’s name and inheritance?”

[Digital Muse]

The way that everyone moved was gratifying to Raewyn. She and Loki were forced to nearly run as Tsume sent Eri and the Summons off to locate James. As they worked their way through town, Raewyn tried to figure out the wildly different emotions she sensed from the others. Eri was beyond angry. Tsume was concerned while Jake was relieved and almost gleeful to be doing something, anything, rather than shopping.

How was she supposed to be a Goddess when she never knew what was going on? Suddenly, Tsume paused, changed directions and they were forced to follow, “Eri’s found him.” He stated. They all arrived at the clearing at roughly the same time, but Eri had her arms crossed over her chest and was accusing James of having abandoned his oath to protect Raewyn.

Raewyn almost screamed, What is going on!? Her eyes flitted toward Loki’s intent face and once again, she realized that the young man knew what was happening. She vowed to find out later tonight.

All of their attention was grabbed when the man David appeared. He was one of the bad men? Why was he calling James Owen. The mercenary Captain had called him that too. Was that his real name? Not for the first time, she wished she could read people’s minds. Her brow furrowed when David accused Owen of killing his own brother and they both spoke of the other committing sinful acts.

“Those words are not for your ears. You would never understand as I would never understand your explanation of your sinful actions.” James then said.

Wait a minute, Raewyn thought, I am the Goddess, aren’t I? "Are those words for me, then, Owen? Maybe you should explain it to me.” Her heart was hammering as she stepped forward slightly. She was terrified, “You promised to help us. This isn’t the way to do it.” Her eyes then moved toward David. She examined him minutely, scented him, listened to his heartbeat almost unconsciously. Could she smell Marinik or any of the other bad people on him? She could tell he’d been in an inn recently, eaten an apple and…had the scent of a woman on him too. But frustratingly, none of that seemed in anyway helpful.

Knowing she could trust Jake to ensure that the man facing them from attacking them, Raewyn looked back to James, Tsume and Eri. “Maybe you should explain it to us to help us understand, James.” Something about James’ scent was off to her too, but again she didn’t know why. It reminded her of old leaves or mushrooms. One day, she’d recognize it as the scent of disease. But right now, she had no idea.

[Loki]

Tsume was unnerved by the sudden turn of events and how the others seemed to have forgotten about their primary objective. Eri had gone ahead and Jake seemed far too immersed into his desire for conflict to put Raewyn’s safety as a priority one. Sure, he would be more than a handful in combat should they walk into an ambush, but what was needed were defensive guardians. It was just himself and Loki who were keeping alert in regards to the Goddess’s protection at the moment. Then again, this anxiety was most likely stemming from the unusual behavior of their opponents. He knew that had other Saturates been present at the conflict a few days prior, they surely would have lost. If Owen’s present opponent had ties to the same group, then it would indicate that they were effectively being stalked from afar and that their hunters were biding their time. It was this unknown element that scared him the most.

There was the faintest wave of relief once the group reunited effectively closing the vulnerability in their ranks. His senses stretch out as the others spoke to remain vigilant for any others. Eri’s telepathic message indicating no signs of a potential ambush made Tsume feel both relieved and on edge. In the back of his mind, the monk had actually hoped for an ambush; at least that would give their adversaries some level of predictability. Instead, their actions since the encounter with Marinik have been entirely enigmatic.

“And now I know for a fact you are involved with this small group Owen.”

Adrenaline coursed through his veins upon the stranger’s opening comment. Who would state something like that unless they were expecting to find us knowing our objective? There’s no doubt about it… He’s with them… Tsume kept his focus set so that he could summon his spear at a moment’s notice as Owen and David spoke. Although he had known the general background regarding Owen’s history and banishment from the Temple, the things they were saying had been enlightening to Owen’s assumed identity. He had no idea how things would pan out, but Tsume did his best to prepare himself for anything.

“Perhaps it is time to lay your hand upon the table for all to see, Owen. If we are going to be fighting side-by-side in battle, you can’t have something as vital as your true identity hidden from your allies. There is no hiding it now that this man has exposed your secret.”

---

The few minutes it had taken them to reunite, Loki’s mind had been awash with conflicting thoughts and emotions with the prospect of another fight. He was certainly more confident from Eri’s lessons, but phantom pains in his leg reminded him the repercussions to having even the slightest vulnerability. After hearing what had happened once he had become knocked unconscious by the mercenary captain, Loki knew full well just how lucky he was to have survived that conflict, just as he had been with Marinik. Nobody’s lucky streak lasts forever…

Once they had entered the duel grounds, Loki instinctively went to Eri’s side. If he was to fight, he felt safest by his teacher’s side. She knew best of all his weaknesses in combat and figured that she would be able to provide a shield to the vulnerabilities that might otherwise kill him. When David revealed himself, all Loki could think of was why this man wanted to risk his life to fight James. As they spoke, he could easily tell that there was a history between them, but there was so much missing from it that he could not make understand the veiled meanings of their statements. The most he was able to get out of it was that James was actually named Owen, that he had assumed his dead brother’s identity, and that Owen might have been the one to kill him. Although he wanted to know the truth, Loki remained silent feeling that his opinion would carry no real weight in such a heavy matter.

[Sunwolf007]

"Are those words for me, then, Owen? Maybe you should explain it to me.” Raewyn said, “You promised to help us. This isn’t the way to do it.”

No this is exactly the way to help. You don’t know him like I have come to know him in the last few years. This man is ruthless and will not stop hunting us especially now he knows I dueled James.

“Maybe you should explain it to us to help us understand, James.”

There is no proper explanation for my actions. Only excuses and what I did is inexcusable.

“Perhaps it is time to lay your hand upon the table for all to see, Owen. If we are going to be fighting side-by-side in battle, you can’t have something as vital as your true identity hidden from your allies. There is no hiding it now that this man has exposed your secret.” Tsume said.

Your wrong monk. Now I have to silence him because you let them know we were connected. You should have seen what I was doing and made the right strategic choice. I must be the only one who can see strategy. Damnit.

“David would you mind starting this duel momentarily?” Owen asked.

“Not at all good man.” David replied, “I will be ready in about five minutes.”

“Thank you David.” Owen replied and then returned his attention to his new acquaintances, “Listen closely because I am only going to say this once. This duel must happen. Neither of us will rest until it does. If I survive I will tell you about my past if you must hear it. No one must help me in this fight especially if I am going to be killed. Consider this favor repayment for the help I have given thus far. If I do die and someone wants to avenge me please do it on a different day. I would want that duel to be a fair fight. Now I must be off and prepare myself. Remember do not get involved until after the duel.”

Owen walked slowly towards the expansive forested area north of the city. He rechecked his firearms and began remembering everything he could about his enemy. I have no idea of any his abilities but I know he has them because he showed up with no weapons. I saw him controlling mist which could be one of two things, weather or water. Unless he can manipulate minds in which case I am destined to lose. I don’t think that is the case otherwise he would have found me much sooner. I should not try to use either of my new abilities or the new ability. I really need to get that figured out. Well, if he were to use water I should find an effective counter strategy now…

Five minutes felt like the remaining 20 minutes to Owen who was frantically trying to come up with an effective strategy for the fight. He felt as if he couldn’t come up with anything but plausible theories with mostly no basis. I will just have to hit him hard and fast to make my opening. It’s all I can do.

“Not going to determine it with dueling pistols?” Owen asked.

“It would be a waste for men of our caliber.” David responded. The silence resumed.

“Well, good man it is seconds from start. Any last words?” David asked as he put away his pocket watch. He stood without a fighting stance but Owen knew he was ready. Owen wouldn’t give him the satisfaction of drawing another rise out of him.

“How about ‘Fate determines the winner’?” Owen responded confidently trying to mask his uneasiness.

“Good enough I suppose. We can commence on your go.” David responded with the same confidence. Owen reacted instantly, pulled his rifle level and fired in a half second. The bullet, on target for between David’s eyes, stopped short in a hastily constructed barrier of water. Seeing this Owen emptied his rifle knowing it would do little but distract him. David had the ability to spread his water shield to block his entire body form a frontal attack. Owen stepped behind a tree for cover while he reloaded his rifle.

“Don’t tell me that this is all you are capable of Owen. I would be bitterly disappointed.” David called as he remained calmly standing still, “This doesn’t even rank as a dispute yet.”

After finishing reloading his rifle he slung the weapon on his back. He pulled out one of his revolvers. This one was loaded with .45-70 shells which had much more gunpowder than the rifle. Owen called this his ‘armor piercing round’ and hesitantly he pulled out his second revolver. The off rounds should keep him distracted long enough. Good thing I looked over the water penetration studies. I would be screwed if I didn’t know what ‘bullets’ to use. Owen thought as he prepared his massive assault on David’s defenses.

Owen leapt out from behind the tree as he opened fire with his revolvers. The bullets struck the water shield the bullets penetrated with differing effects but still stopping short of David’s body. Owen’s vision suddenly blackened as he was thrown backwards from a blow (a vertical pillar of water) he didn’t see. He bounced off a tree branch and landed roughly on the ground. Lighting instantly screamed through the air aimed directly at the water shield, two feet before the shield the lighting split on a diagonal and went to each side of David, reconvened behind him and struck him in the back. Not waiting to see the effects of the blow Owen leapt to his feet and finished off the rounds in both revolvers while closing the distance between him and David. When he was about 20 feet away the revolvers ran out of ammunition, he holstered both and pulled out his shotgun and fired twice. The buck shot ripped through the water shield to David’s surprise although the blow wasn’t lethal it caused damage. Owen smiled as David still hadn’t figured out why all of these lesser blows were leading up to this moment.

“Surprise.” Owen uttered as he closed his left fist. A light blinded him as three explosions of light flung him backwards. Without a moment to lose Owen stood but was delayed by a coughing fit. He holstered his shotgun and unslung his rifle. He pulled his bayonet from its sheath, attached the bayonet to his rifle he charged forward through the setteling dust cloud kicked up from his ball lightning explosion. He held his rifle about waist high and upon reaching the location he guessed David to be he thrust his bayonet forward. He could feel the resistance of the sword as it pierced through the water shield. Again he was thrown backwards by an attack to quick for his eyes.

“Impressive…” Was all Owen could hear as the rest was covered up by his fit of coughing. When he pulled his hand back he could see his own blood upon them. I must have punctured a lung. My ribs hurt like hell and it really hurts to move. Damn I have to finish this quickly.

“Excellent moves… yourself.” Owen found it hard to speak as his chest cavity was filling up with air. It was getting harder to breath. He managed to stand and held his rifle. He looked around but all he could see was fog. Shit. I didn’t kill him or wound him nearly enough.

“Scared?” David asked “You seam … to be lessening … your relentless assault.”

“You don’t … sound healthy … either.” Owen responded trying to get a fix on his position.

“NO!” David screamed, “Don’t interfea…”

Owen didn’t know what happened but he kept his rifle with bayonet ready. The fog dissipated after a minute of silence revealing that David was nowhere to be found. Owen’s sight and hearing began fading fading fast as he felt the world collapse in on him. He turned to see his friends and there was a sickening crunch and he fell to the ground. He tried to pick himself up but his legs would just not work. He rolled himself over and looked at the sky knowing that his soul was meant for a darker place. He had failed in his act of redemption and now there was no chance of a happy hereafter. He coughed painfully and saw more blood on his hands. It wouldn’t be much longer now. That regeneration power would be great if it kicked in soon. Wait the last time I was healed my clothing was repaired… My pocket watch! That will determine it! He fumbled for his pocket watch and after the third try pulled it out. He opened the lid and placed it on his chest.

“What … time…” was all he could manage to get out. Then the hands on the pocket watch spun backwards three hours exactly before stopping. His body was repaired and his pain gone.

“I was so close… WHY CAN’T I JUST DIE IN PEACE!”

[Silvan Arrow]

Eri heard James’ response to her angry query, but the words glossed over her ears instead of taking full effect. Her emotional control was already hanging by a thread, and she didn’t want to hear anymore seemingly meaningless excuses. Contempt for her actions dripped like acid from James’ words, which only added fuel to the ever-growing fire in her mind.

“This is my personal matter and no one else’s. I must also point out that it is MY life to keep or lose as I see fit. What right do any of you have to tell me how to live or die?”

Oh, how she wanted to throttle some sense into that thick skull of his! She nearly burst into an uncharacteristic tirade, that when he dies that’s it for his legacy, that he had also pledged his life to protect the Goddess, and that his view on life was completely selfish just like hers had been for so many years. However, the arrival of the rest of the group stopped her words on her tongue.

Arashi maintained a protective crouch behind his mistress, purposely blocking Jake from Eri’s peripheral vision with half-spread wings. And it was a good thing too. Through their bond, he sensed Eri’s unrest grow at Jake’s seemingly light-hearted joke. He tried to convey peace to her, but her emotions were too chaotic for his efforts to do much good.

And then the metaphorical hammer dropped as David appeared in the clearing and, within the span of a few minutes, undid everything the group knew about James and cast his identity and entire life story into a jumbled tangle of lies, veiled half-truths, and accusations. Just who was he? James or this character Owen? What was the history between him and David? What about his brother? Was anything about him even remotely trustworthy? Had he been working as a double agent to deceive them the whole time? So many questions flooded Eri’s mind, yet she couldn’t find voice to them. Raewyn surprised Eri by stepping forward and asking James – or was he Owen? – to explain. Tsume quickly echoed her sentiments, though Eri could tell by the tone of his voice that he knew more than he had previously revealed. Just how many secrets was everyone hiding? ‘This is why I always hated working in groups.’ That sudden urge to flee on Arashi’s back and never look back reared its ugly head once again, and Eri had to forcibly keep her feet rooted to the ground lest her body betray that desire.

As the prospect of a fight grew more inevitable, Eri sensed Loki wisely take up a postion at her side. He was the one person in the group from whom she had never sensed anything less than honesty, albeit naïve honesty at times, and sincerity. Given the events from the past few days, she much preferred having her less experienced but trustworthy student by her side than a more seasoned but possibly volatile warrior, like Jake. She gave him a quick nod of acknowledgement and felt the tingle of Essence in her left hand, ready to summon Gale Cleaver at a second’s notice. Sensing the danger, Arashi moved forward to flank Eri’s other side. She lightly rested her right hand on his side, both to draw from his reserve of calm and to keep him from lunging forward to attack David without warning. She could feel his muscles wound tightly and quivering beneath her fingertips, and she feared that her emotional unrest was starting to echo to him through the bond.

James (or Owen) addressed the group and told them not to interfere, that the duel had to happen. With Arashi serving as an anchor for her emotions, Eri silently agreed to grant him that favor and stayed put. The minutes ticked by at an agonizing pace, with James and David throwing verbals jabs back and forth to maintain a confident front. And then chaos broke loose. James opened fire with his rifle, only to be repelled by David’s water shield.

Interesting, Arashi commented. We’ve never seen a water User before. Eri wanted to say something sarcastic about not rooting for the enemy, but she didn’t trust herself to remain in control. Her right hand on Arashi fisted around his feathers to physically hold herself back from charging into the fray. Even though it was James’ last request, this duel just felt…wrong. Water and lightning ducked, wove, and exploded in a chaotic, deadly dance that left both men wounded and exhausted. James exhausted his ammunition and charged head-on with his bayonet. David’s dense cloud of fog obscured even Eri’s enhanced vision of the fight, but she heard him start to scream something about not interfering. Had a third person interfered with the duel? Essence tingled painfully in Eri’s palm as she and Arashi tensed in unison, ready to respond if the group came under attack.

Instead, the clearing fell utterly silent as the fog dissipated, leaving James standing alone with David nowhere in sight. Well, standing was putting it generously. He turned his body to lock eyes with the group and then collapsed to the ground. Arashi screeched in alarm, and for a split second Eri thought he had died before her eyes. However, he managed to roll himself over onto his back and fumble for his pocket watch. “What…time…” What happened next, Eri almost didn’t believe. Somehow, James’ wounds disappeared in a matter of seconds, leaving him lying on the ground in exactly the same condition as before the fight. “I was so close… WHY CAN’T I JUST DIE IN PEACE?!”

When no one else moved in response to James’ tirade, Eri gently clapped a hand on Loki’s shoulder to get his attention. “Keep a lookout. I don’t think we’re out of the woods yet.” She added mentally to Arashi, Watch my back, and keep your eyes alert. Something’s not right about the way David just vanished.

Eri slowly moved forward and knelt at James’ head, though she didn’t touch him. “You mentioned something about Fate determining the winner. Maybe Fate has something different in mind for you than just dying,” she remarked matter-of-factly, keeping her tone neutral and nonconfrontational. She gave him a visual onceover to check for injuries. “How in the world did you heal like that?” she muttered more to herself than anyone else. Her eyes strayed to the pocketwatch lying facedown on James’ chest, and she remembered his words from four nights ago…

“I have been going over in my head what ability I picked up from our young Goddess and am still not sure which of the two I came up with. It’s either Regeneration or Time Manipulation. If it is indeed Regeneration then the Vikinsons won’t take 6 months, it should only take days.”

‘Pocketwatch…time…’ Eri delicately picked up the old watch and checked the time. Her brow furrowed in confusion as she looked at the watch’s hands, glanced up to check the position of the sun, and re-checked the watch again. Then it clicked in her mind, and a pleased smirk spread over her face. “Either you like to keep your watch set about three hours early, or you’re a Time Manipulator.” She laid the watch faceup on James’ chest. “I think you still have your six months, and maybe more.”

[quakernuts]

Too many things were being said for Jake to even begin caring what was going on. James happened to be on some sort of personal duel or whatnot that the rest had stumbled onto, and Jake was slightly confused on why this was happening. It wasn't until the other man, David if he heard correctly, showed his face to the group. Jake was already starting to tune everyone out in preparation for a fight, a fight that James or Owen or whatever his name was wanted them to stay out of. Jake, however, wasn't too keen on watching a fight take place without him having some sort of participation in it. There was even more confusion as lies and hidden facts made their way into the spotlight. Maybe at a later time, Jake would be able to see through them to understand what was happening at the current moment. However, his rational side was not making itself well known. This man had lied to them, betrayed their trust, and was now attempting a weird form of suicide. Jake was quite frankly, just a bit pissed off. As everyone started questioning his motives and his reasons, Jake stood there stone faced. He had been suspicious when he first joined up, and released it when the monk said to. Now, if he were to join up with them again, how could he ever trust him? How he could he ever let a man who lied about even his name watch his back in a fight?

Before James answered any questions, he asked to start the duel. Evading the whole situation, hoping he would die. Jake couldn't hold respect for the man, and now he wanted to enter the fight to beat them both down with his bare fists. David, just for threatening them, and James, for lying to them. His grip tightened around the hilt of his axe as verbal insults were tossed back and forth. Jake looked around to see if anyone else looked keyed up to fight, everyone seemed calm, save Eri who looked just as wound up as he did. Finally, the fight started and James let loose with a barrage of bullets from his rifle only to have them stopped by some sort of water shield. As he took cover behind a tree to reload and switch weapons, Jake started taking steps forward. When James was struck by some sort of water pillar, Jake started to walk into the fray only to be stopped by a spear in front of his face. He looked over to see Tsume holding his gaze sternly. Very hesitantly, Jake backed down. He didn't like it, but he didn't want to start another fight with the monk. That would only make things worse than they already were. So, for the entire duration of the fight Jake did his best to hold himself from entering the battle. Suddenly James rushed in with nothing but his bayonet, and scoffed at the attack. Had he tried that against me, I would have torn him to shreds with his own blade. Jake thought to himself to keep him distracted from actually walking forward into the thick of it. Then, there was a moment of silence as everything settled. The fog was creating havoc for his eyes, and he couldn't see a single thing through it.

It was about then he heard the voices of the two combatants. They both sounded heavily injured, but he couldn't see either to confirm what he thought might have happened. Suddenly, the man named David seemed to be shouting at someone not to interfere, and everything went quiet again. The fog seemed to lift from the ground, and all that could be seen was James, lying on the ground heavily wounded. Jake carefully scanned his surroundings, convinced that something was wrong. The other man, from what he sounded like, wouldn't have been able to disappear that fast on his own. Someone was out there, watching them. Jake wanted to make sure that whoever was doing was going to end up with his blade lodged in their skull. He was distracted however, when James seemed to flip himself over and barely managed to get a watch out of his pocket.

Jake watched in mild fascination at the scene that unfolded before him. If there was any doubt as to what Jame's new ability was, it was washed away after his entire body seemed to revert back to normal, clothes and all. This didn't stop the red haze from misting over his eyes when he shouted to the skies asking why he couldn't just die in peace. Eri moved forward first, and it was good to see that she was calmed down slightly. Jake on the other hand, well, not so much. He stormed towards Owen "I'm not too sure about that 'peace' part, but I can easily help you with the 'dying'!" Jake moved past Eri, gripped Jame's collar, and lifted him off the ground high enough for everyone around him to see. "We are all going to have a chat, and if you lie about one more thing, my axe will find a new holster in your neck. Do I make myself clear?!" Jake looked him straight in the eyes to make sure the man knew he wasn't kidding. Once he was positive the message was through, he dropped James roughly on the ground, and walked back towards Tsume.

As he turned his back on his former ally, his head spun from the inside on how increasingly violent he had become. Sure, he had always been a little on the rough side, but now more so than usual. He hated that he could see it, but couldn't stop it. Even now his temper was still high and on fire, and walking away was the only thing keeping him from turning that axe on James. He needed some down time, or needed a release. He needed a fight soon, before the barrier between friend and foe broke down. He was addicted to fighting, and the longer he stayed off of it, the more volatile he became. As he reached Tsume's side, he turned around, planted his axe on the ground, and leaned on it.

"Why don't you start from the beginning."

[Digital Muse]

Even though she’d been the instigation for bringing everyone together in order to ‘save’ James; somehow James was angry about it. She was positive it had been the right thing to do. But, now accusations and harsh words were flying from all directions. She felt the heated emotions from Eri and Jake and James. But they all were of a different flavor, so to speak. Tsume was really the only calm presence in the clearing. And Loki seemed as confused as she did.

And then the man from the market showed up and once again James was called Owen. Just like when they’d been attacked in the forest. He had lied to them all. Why? Was James really part of the enemy? The snide smirk on David’s face certainly lent credence to that notion. Eri was on the verge of screaming at James but just managed to hold back when James pleaded with them all to simply stay out of his private duel with David. A duel? Like the old-fashioned nobles used to do? Trying to kill each other?

James refused to answer any more questions and turned his back on them to approach the patiently waiting David. In a flash, it started. James fired at David, but a towering wall of water shielded the man from the bullets. More firing, more shielding, a lightening ball, a smashing hit and then James charged into an artificial fog bank with his bayonet fixed to his rifle.

Raewyn almost leapt forward at the sounds of James voice because he was so obviously wounded. But Loki reached out to take her hand. Tsume had to block a fidgety Jake at the same time. But likely for a different reason.

Suddenly David screamed out that someone shouldn’t interfere and Raewyn’s heart leapt into her throat. Were there more people here? She couldn’t sense anyone. Not Saturates anyway. What was happening? Her heart hammered in her chest. Finally, the fog clear revealing a grievously injured James, but David was nowhere to be found. What had happened? Just as suddenly, James’ injuries and clothing all repaired before their very eyes and James’ cried to the heavens in an anguished tone.

Jake, for one, had no sympathy whatever. While Eri knelt beside James or Owen…or whoever he was, Jake shouted at him, barely in control of himself. He lifted James by his collar, rattled him briefly and dropped him again. It was during this tirade that Raewyn became aware of Jake’s control slipping. He was becoming more and more unstable. She almost sensed a duality with in his mind. As she grew to know her companions better, she realized she could not only sense their more ‘blaring’ emotions along with differentiating their individual heartbeats and breathing rates and scents but she could almost sense their inner arguments. Eri and Jake, Jake with….himself? James and Tsume. It was all very confusing.

For now, she’d have to just stay quiet and learn….she had to try to figure things out.

[Loki]

Loki did his best to follow the progression of the battle in the hopes of learning from it, but the pace and the fog made it difficult. The confidence David had in his barrier suggested that James would not be able to pierce it. When the water actually stopped the bullets, Loki gaped at the power behind his abilities. He considered whether his own wings would be capable of stopping bullets as well as David’s water shield. At the thought, the phantom pain in his leg flared for a moment that caused his balance to waver slightly before the sensation vanished along with his curiosity. When he looked around to see if the others had noticed his wavering stance, feeling embarrassed by it, Loki was relieved to see that the duel had captured the attention of those present. It was at that point that he noticed Jake motion for a charge of his own only to be stopped short by Tsume’s spear.

The past several days seemed to have worn on Jake from what Loki noticed. Even though they had only known each other for a little while, the first few days Jake acted in a manner that he would have expected from a big brother; sarcastic and mocking, but all in the spirit of fun. Now… Loki couldn’t put his finger on it, but something had changed him since the ambush a few days ago. Jake was noticeably more aggressive and his joking lost much of its playfulness. He wanted to give him the benefit of the doubt, refusing to believe that this new side of Jake was who the man truly was rather than the friend who he had originally met.

A sudden flash pulled Loki attention back into the fray before them, but at that point, he could see nothing. Only the voices in the distance informed him that both were still alive at the moment. With a sudden protest from David, the clearing was filled with silence while the eerie mist dissipated leaving only Owen in sight. Loki looked around him, scanning wildly for David and whomever he was talking to without finding so much as a rustling bush. When Eri moved, Loki made sure to keep at her side for his protection as well as her. He only listened as the two of them spoke; years living with only his father had gotten him into the habit of identifying an “adult” conversation and when to “hold his tongue.”

---

Once the duel began, Tsume’s attention was directed to their surroundings rather than the two locked in battle. If ever there was going to be an ambush, this would be the most opportune time with the distraction underway. Moments passed and the only thing out of the ordinary as far as he could tell was Jake. The large man’s lust for conflict was almost palpable to the monk. He wasn’t sure if Jake has personal stake with this match or simply wanted to get his hands dirty; from what he gathered in their time together, the latter seemed most likely. As Tsume looked more thoroughly, Jake seemed almost hypnotized by the battle before him; it was a trait was unnerving given their purpose.

There was a subtle shift in Jakes demeanor just before he began to move towards the duel, at which point Tsume intervened with weapon at the ready to halt the man’s progress. Tsume knew it was a risky move, especially with Jake’s current state of mind, but the group had a purpose to protect the Goddess. Allowing Jake to charge into battle would not only loosen the guard around Raewyn, but it would surely cause strife between Owen and Jake once the match was over; pending they both survived. In the past few days, Tsume noticed a radical decline in the unity of the group and didn’t want to risk a falling out that would leave them more vulnerable.

The hairs on the back of Tsume’s neck stood on end as he felt the presence of a third Saturate somewhere in the fog for the briefest moment before it along with one other presence vanished without a trace. He wasn’t sure what to expect, but feared that David would be the one left standing once the veil finally dissipated. When it finally did, he let out a breath that he had not been aware he was holding when he recognized the remaining figure was Owen. The group moved to rejoin their injured comrade only to find Owen’s injuries once again healing themselves and finally discovering the true identity to his new ability.

With the apparent danger gone, the others began to question Owen’s true motives and identity, something that Tsume also found himself curious about. Currently, his mind was more preoccupied with the fleeting presence and how they had come and go so freely without leaving a trace in their wake.

"Why don't you start from the beginning."

“It is about time Owen explains himself, but we should do so in the safety of the Inn. Just because there is no obvious sign of danger doesn’t mean we are safe here.”

[Sunwolf007]

Owen looked up towards the sky and soon his vision was blocked by Eri as she viewed him for any wounds.

“You mentioned something about Fate determining the winner. Maybe Fate has something different in mind for you than just dying.” Eri spoke as if she knew what she was talking about while trying to not pick a fight. What would you know of my fate? My life has not been my own for at least 5 years. I must continue to live so that everyone remembers James and in doing so remember me. She looked at his pocket watch which he had left upon his chest.

“Either you like to keep your watch set about three hours early, or you’re a Time Manipulator.” She laid the watch face up on James’ chest. “I think you still have your six months, and maybe more.”

What!? Owen looked at the watch which did indeed read 3 hours earlier than it was. Then am I still dying!? It was at this moment that Jake yelled about something dealing with Owen’s unknown past. Jake glared at him trying to convey his message about the seriousness of the situation. The sudden attack was the last straw for Owen. None of them had fully trusted him since the beginning and now he was being manhandled for protecting the group. Owen stood glaring angrily at the group.

"Why don't you start from the beginning." Jake demanded.

“It is about time Owen explains himself, but we should do so in the safety of the Inn. Just because there is no obvious sign of danger doesn’t mean we are safe here.” Tsume said but the suggestion didn’t delay Owen’s onslaught of emotions.

“Can any of you honestly say that you joined this group for the single reason of helping the Goddess? If you even try you’re either lying to yourself or lying to the rest of us.” Owen voiced his objection clearly, “Everyone has many reasons to do a single thing. Just because you found out that I had more than one reason for joining this group you instantly think I am a dishonest fellow only looking after his own affairs? I have helped you all in every way I deemed necessary but now…”

“Not here Owen.” Tsume said in a stern voice, “At the hotel we will get into this but not here.”

Owen organized his thoughts as they walked back to the hotel. It wasn’t going to be easy but he was going to have to let them know more about him than anyone else alive and this bothered him to no end. Once they arrived he noticed the letter left on the table. After reading the address he knew it must have been sent by David and opened it. Smiling he read aloud the contents of the message.

“I regret to inform you all that the man you are traveling with uses a false name. I have reason to believe that he even killed his brother for the very name he is using. If I were traveling with your group I would insist that he be dismissed at once. Signed, A friend.” Owen threw the letter to the ground and stood facing the group.

“Most of you found out my second reason for joining a few evenings ago. My first reason was also a valid one as if we do succeed this will make an excellent advertising campaign. But lastly, and this is by far the most important reason for joining this group, I would get to fight against the group that destroyed my brother. I wanted revenge and I would be able to attain it by fighting the very group that caused his death.” Owen remained silent to let this sink in hoping that this was all they wanted.

“This was already implied at the duel. I am more interested in the specific details.” Tsume said feeling Owen’s reluctance to explain his past.

“Fine. It starts with a piece that must be removed for I am sworn to secrecy about some of these events. But let’s just say I was involved with a powerful group that wants their involvement to remain anonymous. Being the second son born I was not the heir to the company so I was attempting to make my own way in life. This caused me to have a differing set of ideals than most of my family but didn’t cause an outright feud. My older brother, James, was a master at business and expanded our company into a few new markets with ingenious strategies. He was a lot like my father who was all business with little mind for anything else. He was the perfect heir and on my 17th birthday, or 5 years ago, I found out why. My family was in a nearby town that I visited to celebrate my changing of age. After a rather wondrous party, filled with important people who I never knew, I got into a debate with my brother. I found out why business had been going so good. He was dealing with this very group we are fighting. They wanted a source of cheap quality weapons and they needed my brother to finalize the contract which was why they were at my party. The terms were set and the paper was being drafted for signing. I found out about this and confronted James. This was against company policy because we always dealt with respectable clients. Because of this groups involvement with my brother he died. I will never forgive them for that and I will hunt them down like the dogs they are for corrupting my brother into some two-faced businessman with no morality.”

“You left something out Owen.” Tsume said sternly, knowing that this was a very personal question.

“You want to know if I killed my brother for his inheritance? No, I didn’t. I had my own life to live at that point and was always looking to separate myself from my brother. The switching of names was my father’s idea because of… my dismissal from the anonymous group.”

“Owen…” Tsume spoke knowing that Owen didn’t want to answer the question.

“Does it matter who pulled the trigger? That group pushed him into a situation he couldn’t live with even if he didn’t see it at the time. I don’t have to answer to you monk! I never did! You wanted to know what happened and now you know. It doesn’t change who I am today it just explains why I want these bastards so badly as to give up running an important part of the company and risk death. I never had any inclination to harm this group in any way! What more do you need from me!? None of you know what I have lived through in the last 5 years! I know from all of your actions that you all were only children and have no idea what it was like grouping up with an older brother who was always better than me. How I had to live up to a dead man’s legacy while correcting his mistakes and taking no credit for it. How I had to claim I was James and make endless efforts to never see anyone I was friends with ever again. I had to earn every inch of respect from my father who endlessly compared me to the ‘lost perfect son’. No one truly knows me nor will they ever and now you demand to know everything! What about the rest of you!? I know there are things you never want to discuss yet you expect me to tell you mine!? My past haunts me every single day and I will not discuss it anymore with you monk!”

[Silvan Arrow]

Eri froze, every muscle locked hard as steel, as she sensed Jake’s approach from behind and felt, rather than heard, the fury behind his words. She didn’t move the whole time that Jake practically assaulted and threatened Owen’s life over his secrecy. Only when Jake dropped him back on the ground and walked away did she slowly, ever so slowly, relax her grip on her sword hilt and release the tingle of Essence in her palm. She also felt Arashi ease out of his battle crouch that he had assumed when Eri had gone for her sword. Whether or not he realized it, Jake had come dangerously close to forcing Eri to fulfill the promise she had made back during that fateful encounter in the woods.

“You have to make me a promise. If I ever, ever lose control. I mean to the point where I willingly attack one of our group, I want you to put me down. For good.”

“Yes, I will hold to that promise, but you must promise something in return. I want you to keep fighting against whatever force makes you lose control. Seek my help if necessary. Whatever you do, fight your inner battles with the same determination that you fight the physical ones so that I never have to hold my blade to your throat again.”

‘He may have forgotten his promise, but I haven’t forgotten mine,’ Eri thought fiercely as her eyes narrowed out of reflex. Not only that, but she now had Loki’s safety to consider. Her heart had warmed with pride for her student when he stayed by her side as she approached Owen, a smart move for both of their protection. She hadn’t expected to become so fond of the boy in such a short amount of time, almost as if he were a younger brother, but she knew now that she wouldn’t hesitate to take down someone to ensure his safety.

Eri stayed on the ground instead of flying on Arashi as the group trekked back to the hotel. She realized after the fact that she had put them in potential danger with that impulsive move earlier, not to mention David’s mysterious disappearence had put her on edge. She stayed close to Loki and Raewyn so that she could draw her blade to their defense in case of an ambush while Arashi scouted from the air. She reluctantly dismissed her summon as they neared the town to avoid attracting unnecessary attention.

‘Keep your senses alert, though, in case you pick up any emotional climate that would suggest a threat,’ Eri instructed him.

As always, Mistress, Arashi replied.

As James, or rather Owen, explained his story, slowly the pieces started falling into place. Family discord, betrayal, common enemies, it was all becoming far too familiar these days. Part of her heart felt a stab of sympathy upon hearing how Owen had to fight to earn his father’s respect when Eri had been so close with hers. Owen’s furious tirade towards Tsume reminded Eri somewhat of a caged animal. Here he was baring his soul to people he had known for mere days and trying to justify the darkest parts of his past.

“No one truly knows me nor will they ever and now you demand to know everything! What about the rest of you!? I know there are things you never want to discuss yet you expect me to tell you mine!? My past haunts me every single day and I will not discuss it anymore with you monk!”

A heavy, stunned silence hung over the group for several tense seconds as Owen finished his rant and glared at all of them, as if daring anyone to refute him. He clearly wasn’t himself, at least not the rational self that Eri had come to know. Somehow she had a sinking feeling that if Jake or Tsume tried to say anything remotely challenging, then Owen might completely snap. She couldn’t risk that happening with Loki and Raewyn in the room and so decided to try and diffuse the situation.

“We all have things to hide,” Eri stated in as calm a tone of voice as she could muster, “and parts of our past that we would rather not discuss.” Her gaze drifted over each member of the group in turn and rested on Jake last for a half-second longer than the others. “I’m not exactly thrilled that you lied about your identity, Owen,” the name sounded so strange after getting used to calling him James, “but you’re right in that you haven’t betrayed us. That’s good enough for me. For now.” She paused to let her words take effect. “In the meantime, I suggest we leave this town quickly. Whoever made David disappear in the forest may come back for us.”

[Digital Muse]

And so, Owen’s new ability was finally solved. Time manipulation. Before anyone really could react, they were all hustled back to the Inn to gather their wits. But, rather than remaining calm, Owen turned on the group, virtually attacking them all verbally for prying into his private life and the effects it’s had on him.

The shock of realizing that Owen had killed his own brother took Raewyn’s breath away. Sure, she understood (or thought she did) the pressures of a lack of attention in a family situation. But even by her own perception, Owen or James was on the verge of his own control.

While Eri spoke softly to James, calming him, another unsettled presence within the room loomed large in her consciousness. Jake might be silent, but his heart raced; it’s beat loud to her ears. He sweated as if he waited for a killing stroke before the explosion of battle. He was calmer when he was truly engaged then when he was at rest. It made Raewyn wonder what was going through his mind, what was haunting the formerly happy-go-lucky partner in their adventure?

In the momentary quiet, Raewyn slipped closer to Jake and bit her lip as she tried to think what to say to him. He’d come close to killing her once. He terrified her. But, she had to say something. “Jake. I…Are you alright? You seem upset or…nervous or something.” She murmurs softly to him. Her voice is only meant to carry to him alone. It is only after a few moments that she finally glances up at him to see if he’d even heard her. “Can I help?”

What was happening to the group? They were turning on one another. They distrusted and accused one another. Was it the influence of being with her and the Goddess the reason? Was there some other influence? She prayed it was. To this point, her own change in ability hadn’t been brought up. Perhaps no one expected her to have additional abilities…or…more likely they *did* expect more from her, after all? Should she tell? She agonized and looked to Tsume for guidance.

Finally after a few moments Raewyn remembers something she’d almost forgotten altogether. “Tsume? I…I have to tell you something.” Raewyn looked very unsure of herself. It was certainly not something she ever had experienced before. “There was someone else in the clearing….just for a little bit. They took that man away.” She glanced to the others, fearful that all their anger would round on her next. “They probably know where we are. I…I mean we should leave.”

[quakernuts]

“Can any of you honestly say that you joined this group for the single reason of helping the Goddess? If you even try you’re either lying to yourself or lying to the rest of us. Everyone has many reasons to do a single thing. Just because you found out that I had more than one reason for joining this group you instantly think I am a dishonest fellow only looking after his own affairs? I have helped you all in every way I deemed necessary but now…”

At this statement from James, or Owen, or whoever he was, Jake instantly wanted to rebuke him. To say that not everyone was as complicated as they seemed. To say he only joined up for the fight, or for something to do. Instead, he bit his tongue almost literally in order to keep his mouth shut. He forced himself to calm down, to keep a rational head, and to look over the facts that were happening. Not an easy task when you were as wound up as he was. He did manage not to say anything during the outburst, but he teetered in spot as if waiting for a signal to lunge at Owen. Finally, Tsume interjected before Jake's primal side got the better of him.

So, they all travelled quietly back to the inn, where Owen proceeded to open a letter and read aloud the contents that lay within. Jake was not the brightest guy on the planet, but even he knew that had to be David, the guy from the clearing. Finally, Owen decided to be forthcoming about his past, and why they had been dragged into this personal conflict through him. Jake found himself oddly calming down, even if it was only slightly. His heart still beat faster than normal, and his eyes were deadlocked onto Owen. So, when a tiny voice spoke to him, it made his head dart to the side in a surprised manner. Seeing that it was Raewyn, the surprise only doubled as he suspected that she would be the last one to speak to him for threatening her life.

“"Jake. I…Are you alright? You seem upset or…nervous or something. Can I help?”

He pondered that question for a moment, wondering if truly he was alright. After a moment's hesitation, he gave a small sigh and looked down at the girl. "I don't think anyone can help me right now, but thanks for asking." His voice was low and sombre, even more uncharacteristic than his over-aggressiveness. Instead, he re-focused on Owen telling his story, and ended up thinking about his own past. Unlike Owen, it wasn't because he simply didn't want to tell anyone, it was because he never wanted to go back there himself. After his entire story was done, everyone sat in an awkward silence for a few minutes before Eri spoke for the entire group.

When she said they all had things to hide, Jake wanted to say that he didn't, but her gaze lasted longer on him than any other so he kept his mouth shut. Finally, she mentioned that she was fine with him, and that they should get going in case whoever took David decided to come back. Jake simply shrugged, and made for the door first. He was tired of hotel rooms, and wished to be out in the open once more. On his way past Owen, he stopped for a moment. "I'm sorry for my actions earlier, but don't you dare say you are the only one that has suffered."

With that, he continued out the door, expecting the others to follow.

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